Due to a lack of majority support from EU member states, the final vote on the EU’s Nature Restoration Law, scheduled for April, was unexpectedly removed from the agenda on Friday (22 March). This legislation, a key component of the EU’s Green Deal aimed at protecting biodiversity, had already been approved by both member states and the EU parliament.
However, recent opposition to the law emerged, with Hungary and the Netherlands leading the way. Other countries such as Poland, Finland, Italy, and Sweden initially planned to abstain but have now also expressed opposition. Belgium and Austria are reportedly abstaining, effectively blocking a majority in the council.
As a result, Belgium, currently holding the EU Council presidency, decided to postpone the vote indefinitely to allow for further discussions and potential amendments. The future of the law remains uncertain, with the possibility of renegotiation between member states and the European Parliament.
Concerns from countries like Sweden and Finland, particularly regarding the impact on the forestry industry, have contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the law. Additionally, farmers’ protests have played a role in potentially derailing the legislation at the last minute.
Despite the challenges, EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of addressing farmers’ concerns and urged member states to consider adopting the proposal in the upcoming EU council meeting in April. The law, which was narrowly passed in the European Parliament in November, continues to face opposition, particularly from the European People’s Party.
