The Kingdom of Morocco has made a significant advance in the process of legalizing bowhunting. This progress is marked by the recent agreement signed with the Association Chasse et Pêche Touristique au Maroc (AOCPT) and the Moroccan National Water and Forestry Agency (ANEF), thanks to the diligent efforts of the European Bowhunting Federation (EBF) and Mr. Thierry Raymond FECOMME.

This agreement is crucial to the legalization of bowhunting for all interested hunters in Morocco.

Essential steps such as establishing the legal framework, structuring a Moroccan federation for bowhunting, and training instructors are underway. The agreement allows for the organization of foreign bowhunting in Morocco.

The EBF, under the leadership of President Anders Gejer, played a pivotal role in this achievement. For over a three year period, Mr. Thierry Raymond FECOMME, in partnership with the EBF, has been instrumental in advocating for the legalization of bowhunting in Morocco. Their tireless efforts have culminated in this historic decision.

The Moroccan government’s acceptance of bowhunting marks a new chapter in modern, ethical, sustainable wildlife management and conservation. The EBF has committed to providing continued support and advice to further develop bowhunting practices in Morocco.

Recent developments in European countries solidified this decision. Denmark's legalization of bowhunting for large game such as red deer, effective January 1, 2024, set a precedent in ethical hunting practices. This move was greatly influenced by a comprehensive study from the Danish Technical University, affirming that skilled bowhunting meets high animal welfare standards.

Equally impactful is a Finnish study conducted from 2019 to 2023, which compared bowhunting to rifle hunting for white-tailed deer. This extensive research, led by veterinarian Mikaela Sauvala, concluded that bowhunting is on par with rifle hunting and aligns with contemporary animal welfare standards. These findings have been instrumental in shaping perceptions of bowhunting as a viable, ethical, and sustainable method of wildlife management.

The positive outcomes and scientific validations from Denmark and Finland have significantly supported the decision to advance bowhunting in Morocco, showcasing a growing trend towards responsible and sustainable hunting practices across Europe.

The ANEF and AOCPT have committed to support this initiative, recognizing the benefits of regulated and responsible bowhunting. This decision not only promotes an ethical approach to hunting but also aligns with conservation efforts in the country.

"We are thrilled to see the fruition of our collaborative efforts in Morocco," said Anders Gejer, President of the EBF. "This is a significant step forward in promoting responsible hunting practices and wildlife conservation. We look forward to our continued partnership with Moroccan authorities and local organizations in fostering sustainable bowhunting. We will continue to offer our expertise and resources to promote ethical bowhunting practices globally".

This landmark decision is expected to pave the way for a new era of hunting and conservation efforts in Morocco, setting a positive example for sustainable wildlife management practices worldwide.