When I grew up, I lived in what’s called the “wolf zone” in Norway. I spent quite a lot of time in the woods, either playing with friends or walking on my own. I saw a lot of animals, like foxes, elks, mice, hedgehogs, and others. Did I ever see wolves? No, never. Have I ever felt afraid in the woods? Nope, nor that.

The Norwegian government have decided that a total 42 wolves can be shot this winter, which is 75 percent of the wolves residing in Norway. The wolves, who are called Arctic Wolves or Grey Wolves, are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species. This is problematic for so many reasons, and yesterday about 3000 people met up in front of the government building to show that we disagree with their decision. The Norwegian government claim that killing wolves and destroying nature helps to reduce conflict in society. This is absurd, as there is no evidence to support this claim, as far as I know. What they’re doing is ignoring any recommendations from researchers, as well as the majority opinion of the Norwegian people.

There were several speakers at the demonstration, like Mads Andenæs, professor of law at the University of Oslo, who explained how these killings are against Norwegian law, as well as Berne Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats. Other speakers were Tore Hauge, who lives in the wolf zone, Lise Myhre, creator of the comic Nemi, Harald Kryvi, professor of biology, and several others.

I hope the killings of the wolves stop soon. Because this madness just can’t continue!