Understanding stakeholder conflict between conservation and hunting in Malta

摘要: Abstract Conservation conflicts often involve tensions between human stakeholders. One highly topical conflict is that around migratory bird hunting in the Mediterranean, particularly Malta. Here, hunters and anti-hunting groups have escalated to include rural surveillance operations by groups, physical scuffles with hunters, retaliatory poaching measures unheard of Europe, such as use drones or army interventions. We describe historical political background Maltese social network analysis map institutional relationships governmental non-governmental stakeholders influencing Our confirms landscape polarised two distinctive sides few links them. Nonetheless there are organisations opposite spectrum these could be explored improve dialogue lobby. also uncover ORNIS committee, state's single consultative platform lacks brokering power, ability connect otherwise unconnected within a network, which likely why those opposed spring recently started campaigning for national referendum on issue. Although independent monitoring urgently needed if science contribute management this conflict, it will only useful current stakeholder polarisation overcome. Important steps towards resolution improving their distinguish clearly species conservation animal welfare, co-ordinate themselves better ensure compliance law amongst membership.