Assessment of Invasive Alien Species Policies and Programmes in Central and Eastern Europe

The colonisation and spread of invasive alien species are recognised as some of the most significant contemporary threats to the world’s biodiversity. They present not only an environmental problem but also an economic and social challenge globally. The EU Regulation (No 1143/2014) on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of IAS, approved in 2014, outlined both preventative and remedial actions against invasive species and was seen as a major step towards mitigating the threats posed by IAS.

Member States have applied diverse solutions to adapt and implement the EU Regulation according to their specific conditions, organisational structures, and political situations. This study investigates the national measures in Poland and Hungary, focusing on legislation, implemented projects, and other steps taken. It provides a general overview of IAS management and highlights some good practices and lessons learned that could be applicable to other Central and Eastern European countries.