Hunting and trapping in Malta : a case study of resistance to Europeanisation

Abstract

Hunting and trapping in Malta has always been a contested issue between the hunting lobby (represented mainly by the Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FKNK)) and Birdlife Malta, with the government trying to strike a balance between the two. Malta's accession to the European Union (EU) meant that it had to abide by strict regulations including the Birds Directive. FKNK exhibited what is referred to as resistance to Europeanisation claiming that hunters had every right to practice their pastime. On the other side, Birdlife Malta was pressuring the Government of Malta to bring spring hunting to an end. None of them seemed to give up their stance. This case study illustrates the methods FKNK adopted to resist Europeanisation and the methods Birdlife Malta adopted to further their interests. This dissertation also examines how the activities of FKNK (its resistance) and Birdlife Malta (if they do change) after the verdict of the European Court of Justice.