Turkish lawmaker warns hunting tenders risk new fires amid wildfires

A Turkish lawmaker has voiced strong opposition to the government's hunting tender program, particularly as the nation grapples with persistent wildfires. Evrim Rızvanoğlu, a member of the YENİ Party in Istanbul, directly challenged the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry's decision to initiate hunting tenders for the 2026-2027 season while forests continue to burn.

Rızvanoğlu emphasized the heightened risk associated with such activities during the current climate. "Today, even a single gunshot poses the risk of a new fire," she stated, highlighting the extreme danger. She specifically urged the cancellation of all hunting tenders in regions that have been affected by the recent wildfires.

The lawmaker's statement underscores a growing concern over resource allocation and environmental priorities in Turkey, as the country faces severe ecological challenges. The call to halt hunting activities in fire-prone areas reflects a broader debate about balancing economic interests with critical environmental protection measures.