Belgium has taken a major step forward in wildlife conservation and animal welfare with a recent parliamentary decision banning the import of endangered hunting trophies. This landmark move, supported by Zakia Khattabi, Minister of Climate, Environment, Sustainable Development and Green Deal, marks a victory for conservationists and animal rights activists.
The unanimous vote in the Belgian parliament reflects a major shift in public opinion, with 91% of Belgians opposed to trophy hunting, according to a 2020 Ipsos poll commissioned by Humane Society International/Europe. 88% support banning imports of hunting trophies.
Before the ban, Belgium allowed the import of trophies from endangered species such as hippos, cheetahs and polar bears. However, the new law will put an end to such practices and protect a wide range of species listed in Annex A and Annex B of European Regulation 338/97 on the Protection of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Minister Zakia Khattabi emphasized the urgency of the bill, saying it was “urgent and necessary to protect these endangered species.” The ban extends protection to more species than the original resolution and demonstrates Belgium’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
The bill, introduced by MP Chris Verduigt, received overwhelming support and underlined Belgium’s dedication to environmental management. The International/European Humane Association, which worked closely with Belgian parliamentarians, hailed the decision as a historic victory for animal rights.
HSI/Europe Executive Director Ruud Tombrock praised Belgium’s principled stance against the senseless killing of endangered wildlife and called on other European countries to follow suit. He emphasized the need for an EU-wide ban on hunting trophies, echoing the sentiments of the publics in Member States who prioritize animal welfare and biodiversity conservation.
Belgium’s ban sets a positive precedent for neighboring countries, including France, where similar legislative proposals are being considered. The bipartisan effort to ban trophy imports reflects a growing consensus about the need to protect endangered species and conserve biodiversity. The law requires royal approval before it can come into force, after which it will be published in the Moniteur Belge and come into force. Belgium’s decisive action sends a clear message that the days of trophy hunting are over.
Ahisma T-shirt by Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection
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