Brussels, 6 December 2023 – The FACE-ESFAM Annual Christmas Reception, a joint event organised by the European Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FACE) and the Association of European Manufacturers of Sporting Firearms (ESFAM), took place yesterday evening. Over 100 high-profile participants were in attendance, including Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and representatives from a range of stakeholder organisations.

This reception provided a positive discussion platform on the latest policy developments, including the revision of the EU’s Firearms Regulation.

Ms. Marie Pierre Dechene, Chairman of ESFAM, expressed her satisfaction with the turnout and the quality of discussions: “This reception not only brought together key figures in the sector but also provided a constructive dialogue on regulatory issues. We are pleased to see such active participation and a valuable exchange of views”.

In his speech, FACE President Mr. Torbjörn Larsson reflected on the significant accomplishments achieved over the past four years and emphasised the importance of this gathering in the context of the upcoming European electoral campaign set for June 2024. He stated: “These events are crucial for setting the stage for meaningful collaborations and informing decision-makers about key requests for our future”.

The evening served as a clear demonstration of the strong relation between hunters, the sporting firearms industry, and EU policymakers. It also served as a reminder of the shared commitment to responsible and sustainable practices within the industry.

The participation and interventions of MEPs from a broad political spectrum underscored the event’s inclusive and comprehensive approach to policy dialogue. FACE and ESFAM extend their gratitude to all the attendees for their valuable contributions and look forward to continuing these important discussions in the future.