Strasbourg, 13 March 2025 – Today, the “Biodiversity, Hunting, Countryside” Intergroup held its first meeting for this parliamentary term, reaffirming its role as a key platform within the European Parliament for rural voices. The meeting focused on electing the Intergroup’s leadership and setting priorities for the years ahead.

MEP Juan Ignacio Zoido (Spain, EPP) was elected as President. There was also an agreement on the initial list of Board members: Alex Agius Saliba (Malta, S&D), Isabel Benjumea (Spain, EPP), Herbert Dorfmann (Italy, EPP), Pietro Fiocchi (Italy, ECR), Céline Imart (France, EPP), Stefan Köhler (Germany, EPP), Christine Singer (Germany, Renew Europe), Riho Terras (Estonia, EPP).

Following his election, MEP Zoido stated: “I am proud to lead this strong and diverse Intergroup, which brings together MEPs from different EU Member States and political groups, ensuring a wide representation of rural interests. With a balanced and dynamic board, we are ready to defend and promote the values and traditions of Europe’s countryside.”

The European Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FACE) and the European Landowners’ Organization (ELO) were present at the meeting as the Intergroup’s co-secretariat. A provisional work programme for the Intergroup was agreed by the MEPs present.

Dr. David Scallan, FACE Secretary General, stated: “With the support of over 100 MEPs from across the political spectrum, this Intergroup will be an essential platform to discuss a range of policy initiatives linked to the environment, sustainable hunting, and land use within the European Parliament. We will continue supporting open and constructive discussions between policymakers, the European Commission, and key stakeholders to promote the crucial role of rural communities in European policies.”

Jurgen Tack, ELO Secretary General, stated: “The nomination of the Intergroup’s board marks a crucial moment for Europe’s rural areas. As the only platform dedicated to advocating for the countryside, it must bridge the gap between policymakers and land managers. Together, we must ensure rural voices are heard and that policies support those who safeguard our land, food security, and biodiversity.”

With a strong mandate and broad support, the “Biodiversity, Hunting, Countryside” Intergroup is set to be an important platform to debate policies that impact the countryside, conservation, and rural livelihoods across Europe.