France has called on EU member states and the European Commission to bolster European coordination against invasive alien species (IAS), proposing a pragmatic approach including test species for coordinated eradication and a 'One Health' strategy. In a note for the Council (Environment) meeting scheduled for 25 June 2026, France argues that the current EU regulatory framework, in place since 2014 under Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014, has enabled action through a technical committee and scientific forum but needs reinforcement to address the growing threat.
France highlights the permanent establishment of the Asian yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) for nearly 20 years and the recent arrival of the electric ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) in several member states, including France, causing environmental, economic (particularly to beekeeping), and health impacts. To counter this, France suggests selecting a few 'test' species for coordinated EU eradication to share experience and build capacity. If successful, France proposes prioritising IAS by environmental impact to focus resources effectively. Additionally, France calls for developing a 'One Health' approach that aligns animal, plant, human, and ecosystem health legislation, involving all relevant Commission Directorates-General. Adequate financial resources are deemed necessary to match the collective threat.
The proposal, submitted as an 'Any Other Business' item for the upcoming Environment Council, does not yet have a formal legislative proposal from the Commission. The initiative builds on existing EU legislation but seeks to move beyond the current framework by introducing operational coordination and cross-sectoral alignment. Stakeholders such as beekeepers and agricultural sectors would benefit from reduced economic losses, while national authorities would face potential administrative and financial burdens from coordinated eradication programmes. Environmental NGOs may welcome the prioritisation and One Health approach, but industry groups could raise concerns about regulatory costs and implementation complexity. The Commission is expected to consider the French proposal in future policy discussions, potentially leading to a revised IAS strategy or legislative amendments.