Japan Passes Emergency Law to Tackle Surge in Bear Attacks
Date: 18-apr-2025
Photo by Sukit Suparatpinyo on Unsplash
In a rare and urgent legislative move, Japan’s parliament has passed a revised wildlife control law that allows municipalities to authorize “emergency shootings” of dangerous animals — primarily bears — that enter urban or residential areas. The law was passed following a significant increase in bear-related incidents across several prefectures.
Why the Law Was Introduced
Japan has recorded dozens of bear attacks in recent years, including fatal encounters and injuries in rural communities. Experts attribute the rise to climate change, declining food availability in the wild, and increased human expansion into natural habitats.
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Key Provisions of the Law
- Municipalities can now authorize emergency action without lengthy central approval.
- Professional hunters may be deployed in urban zones.
- Mandatory reporting and humane containment options will also be reviewed.
Public and Environmental Response
While safety concerns are widely acknowledged, some environmental groups have called for greater emphasis on prevention through improved land use planning and wildlife corridors. Government officials insist that the law is a “last-resort” measure intended to save human lives.
A Growing Human-Wildlife Conflict
The emergency law reflects Japan’s ongoing struggle to balance urban safety with environmental conservation. With bear populations expanding into lowland areas, communities are being urged to stay alert and report sightings promptly.
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