On May 12, 2026, the European Commission launched a public consultation regarding the review of the Birds and Habitats Directives. The comments and suggestions received will serve as the basis for the fitness check of the Directives.

On May 12, 2026, the European Commission launched a public consultation regarding the review of the Birds and Habitats Directives. The comments and suggestions received will serve as the basis for the fitness check of the Directives.

The aim of the review is to assess whether the Birds and Habitats Directives continue to adequately support the effective achievement of their nature conservation objectives, while maintaining the European Union's high standards of nature conservation. The review also analyzes opportunities for simplifying and digitizing the regulations as part of the European Commission's broader simplification program. The initiative aims to strengthen the EU's competitiveness while simultaneously taking economic, social, and environmental considerations into account.

Opinions and comments may be submitted on the consultation platform until August 4, 2026, following registration or login.

Access to the consultation:

European Commission – Public Consultation

Further information:

European Commission Green Forum – Birds and Habitats Directives stress test