Supporters of the campaign drew a parallel with falconry, which was recognised as a ‘living human heritage’ by Unesco in 2010 after a joint bid by over a dozen countries.
“That showed it is possible,” wrote Jours de Chasse editors Humbert Rambaud and Vincent Piednoir, who argue that all forms of hunting, worldwide, deserve a similar status.
“From Europe to Africa, Asia to the Americas, the passion for hunting is universal – and intrinsically cultural. It is part of what makes us human.
“The essence of hunting is tied to the origins of humanity and its future. If we want to preserve this immeasurable legacy, we must go further – much further – than just defending it in France.”
‘It is like something Donald Trump would do’
The campaign has drawn fierce criticism from environmental groups.
Speaking on franceinfo on May 17, Allain Bougrain Dubourg, president of environmental group the Ligue pour la protection des oiseaux, said the manifesto was “the height of indecency”.
“When I saw it, I thought it was a joke - like something Donald Trump would do,” he said. “It tramples on the law and ignores science.
“It goes against rulings from the Conseil d’Etat and administrative courts, especially on traditional hunts like those targeting the ortolan, a species that has declined by 80%. Behind all this is business – those birds sell on the black market for €100 to €150 each.”
Mr Bougrain Dubourg called the suggestion of applying for Unesco status “indecent”, and out of step with society.
“Respect for life is now in people’s minds. With a manifesto like this, hunters are shooting themselves in the foot.”
He added that not all hunters support the initiative. “I know some of them, we work with them - and I believe many are ashamed of this.”
