Newsroom
A long-running dispute between hunters and activists in the Cyprus countryside is heading to Parliament, with the island’s Hunting Federation accusing individuals and organized groups of harassing people who are hunting legally.
The federation raised the issue after it was registered for discussion by the House Environment Committee, saying the problem has continued for years.
It said licensed hunters have faced attempts to obstruct or intimidate them while taking part in a legal activity and “unequivocally” condemned such behavior.
The federation did not question people’s right to oppose hunting. Its argument is that disagreement should not turn into direct confrontation in the countryside.
Such incidents, it warned, can create unnecessary tension, disturb public order, and put those involved at risk.
The safety concern is difficult to ignore. Cyprus’ rural areas are shared by hunters, hikers, farmers, cyclists, dog walkers, and environmental campaigners. When confrontations take place during a hunt, where firearms may be present, even a heated argument can become dangerous.
At the same time, the federation sought to make clear that its position should not be interpreted as a defense of illegal hunting.
It said its opposition to poaching remains firm and longstanding, adding that it supports the authorities in enforcing hunting laws effectively.
The federation’s message is that the rules must apply in both directions.
Hunters are required to hold the necessary permits, follow restrictions, and observe strict safety rules. But those who comply with the law should also be able to hunt without being threatened, blocked, or harassed, it said.
“Just as hunters have an obligation to comply strictly with the law and safety regulations, they also have the right to carry out their legal activity without intimidation, obstruction, or harassment,” the federation said.
The issue now before Parliament touches on a wider and often emotional debate in Cyprus. Hunting remains a deeply rooted tradition for thousands of people, while animal welfare and environmental groups continue to raise concerns about wildlife protection, illegal killings, and enforcement.
Those disagreements are unlikely to disappear. The question for lawmakers is where legitimate protest ends and harassment begins and how authorities can protect both wildlife and people without turning the countryside into another battleground.
