EU policy on bird hunting and the polemics surrounding bird hunting : the case of Malta

Abstract

This dissertation aims to give a better insight of the hunting policies stemming from the European Union and how these are implemented within Member States, by focusing on Malta as a case study. The main findings from this research project highlight the growing awareness amongst European citizens regarding the problem of environmental degradation. Another interesting finding made during the research process is the lengthy procedure required when formulating environmental policy at EU level. The politicization of this issue is one of the reasons which contributed to much debate at Maltese, as well as European levels. In Malta, the existence of lobby groups for and against hunting, as well as the respective stands of political parties exemplifies this process, which is characterized by antagonistic relationships with the aim of influencing State policy. The research methods used to carry out this research, were archival I document analysis and elite interviewing.