A potentially contentious debate is set to unfold today in the House Environment Committee, where MPs will examine complaints by legal hunters about the conduct of environmental activists, alongside concerns from conservation groups that fundamental environmental rights could come under pressure.
The discussion follows the registration of a parliamentary agenda item by ELAM MPs, backed by DISY and DIKO, concerning the activities of certain environmental organisations and activists.
Environmental groups argue that a poorly framed discussion risks shifting attention away from illegal bird trapping and poaching, despite the role activists play in exposing wildlife crimes and assisting enforcement authorities.
Concerns over scope of debate
The agenda item to be discussed refers to "the impact of the actions of specific activist organisations and activists operating in the environmental field and the need for measures to address the phenomenon".
Critics say the wording is broad and open to multiple interpretations.
Questions have been raised about which organisations are being targeted, what specific activities are being examined and whether any measures adopted could inadvertently weaken efforts against illegal bird trapping.
Some environmental campaigners have also questioned the timing of the discussion, noting that it coincides with the annual arrival of migratory songbirds and the period when illegal trapping activity typically increases.
Parallel protests planned
The committee meeting is expected to take place against a tense backdrop both inside and outside parliament.
AKEL and ALMA have reportedly expressed reservations about the wording of the debate, while the Movement for Direct Democracy has adopted a neutral position.
Meanwhile, supporters of opposing sides have called separate demonstrations outside the House of Representatives.
The Animal Party has announced a peaceful protest beginning at 10am, one hour before the committee meeting, inviting environmental organisations, volunteers and activists to attend.
At the same time, the Paralimni Hunting Association and the United Cypriot Hunters Movement have called on hunters across Cyprus to participate in what they describe as a peaceful show of support.
CABS under scrutiny
Public statements in recent days suggest that many of the complaints submitted to MPs relate to the international conservation organisation Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS).
The organisation operates across several countries and works in Cyprus to identify illegal trapping equipment, including limesticks and mist nets, while cooperating with local authorities.
Ahead of the parliamentary discussion, CABS released figures highlighting its recent activities on the island.
The organisation said that during the previous autumn season its reports led directly to the conviction of 55 poachers and the seizure of:
- 1,621 limesticks
- 139 nets
- 89 electronic bird-calling devices
According to CABS, 1,286 live birds were rescued and released after being trapped.
The group also said that coordinated operations in recent weeks resulted in six suspected poachers being caught in the act, leading to the confiscation of firearms and illegal trapping equipment.
CABS has urged MPs not to adopt measures that could weaken anti-poaching operations, arguing that cooperation between NGOs, police and the Game and Fauna Service remains essential.
Hunters raise concerns
The Cyprus Hunting Federation has also entered the debate, alleging that law-abiding hunters have increasingly faced harassment from activists in the countryside.
In a statement, the federation said it has for years documented complaints from hunters who claim they have been intimidated or obstructed while engaging in legal hunting activities.
The organisation stressed that it opposes poaching and supports the enforcement of hunting laws.
However, it argued that respect for legality should apply equally to all parties.
"Just as hunters are obliged to comply strictly with the law and safety regulations, they also have the right to carry out lawful activities without intimidation, obstruction or harassment," the federation said.
Extent of poaching problem expected to be discussed
The parliamentary discussion is also expected to provide an opportunity for authorities to present data on the scale of poaching and illegal bird trapping in Cyprus, as well as the challenges faced in tackling the problem.
Several government departments and organisations have been invited to attend, including representatives of:
- The Ministry of Justice
- Cyprus Police
- The Game and Fauna Service
- The Legal Service
- Local authorities from affected areas
- Environmental organisations, including Terra Cypria and OPOK
Meanwhile, BirdLife Cyprus criticised its exclusion from the meeting, saying a request to participate was rejected. The organisation described the decision as unprecedented.
Calls for distinction between legal hunting and poaching
Terra Cypria has urged parliament to ensure equal treatment before the law for all citizens and organisations, while avoiding the stigmatisation or criminalisation of environmental groups and activists who have committed no offences.
The organisation also called for a clear distinction between legal hunting and poaching, arguing that measures aimed at addressing concerns about activist conduct must not undermine environmental protection efforts.
According to Terra Cypria, lawmakers should safeguard the rights of citizens, environmental organisations and environmental defenders while ensuring that illegal wildlife crimes continue to be pursued effectively.
Illegal bird trapping and poaching remain among Cyprus' most persistent environmental challenges, with conservation groups warning that any weakening of enforcement efforts could have significant consequences for biodiversity on the island.
