Finland’s wolf management policy

Priority question for written answer P-000197/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Li Andersson (The Left)

Finland's wolf population consists almost exclusively of the boreal population estimated between 510 -577 individuals according to 2019 - 2024 reporting. This population is divided into two genetically different subpopulations, which are not genetically viable at their current size. Both lack sufficient genetic exchange between them, which threatens their long-term survival. Scientists suggest that the conservation status should be defined above the minimum viable population and include genetic viability. The Habitats Directive[1] provides that conservation status can only be favourable when the population of a species can maintain itself on a long-term basis.

The establishment of permanent wolf packs has been actively prevented in the reindeer herding area (RHA) for decades. According to the Natural Resources Institute Finland, there are no wolf packs in the RHA. In autumn 2024, there were six new wolf territories in the RHA, but they disappeared by spring 2025 when all 26 wolves were culled.

• 1.Can the Commission clarify that Finland cannot set a Favourable Conservation Status for the species if its long-term survival is threatened?
• 2.Can the Commission clarify that Finland's wolf management policy does not align with EU law?
• 3.How will the Commission bring Finland's wolf management policy in the RHA in line with EU law?

Submitted: 19.1.2026

• [1] OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/1992/43/oj.