The issue of minors taking part in hunting remains controversial, as accidental shootings can injure or kill participants more often than desired. Environmental and social organizations argue that preventing children from being present during hunts is essential, given their higher vulnerability to harm. A campaign in the Community of Valencia aims to address this situation, which is notable because this region is one of those where minors can still engage in hunting activities.
Franz Weber Foundation has gathered nearly 77,000 signatures on the Change.org platform, urging a Valencian Community that is free of child predators. The foundation notes that regional rules permit accompanying hunting for all ages and allow weapon carrying from age 14. Civil Guard statistics show that at least 21 children were injured or killed in incidents across Spain between 2007 and 2020.
In recent years, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child has warned about exposure to violence and has urged public authorities to intervene to prevent dangerous situations.
For this naturalist NGO, the death of a four-year-old during a hunt in Andalusia in 2019 illustrates the grave consequences of children’s exposure to hunting-related violence.
The group argues that the only way to reduce risk is to prohibit minor participation, coordinating responsibility across the central government, autonomous communities, and families through legislative reform.
With thousands of signatures collected, the foundation calls for urgent regulatory changes to prevent another injury to a minor resulting from parental or grandparental influence in a so‑called generational shift in hunting that could threaten the integrity of the activity itself.
banning alcohol
There is also a push for greater caution by banning alcohol during hunts. Advocates claim that public authorities often overlook alcohol consumption in these settings, arguing that the only acceptable level when handling a firearm should be zero.
A recent report from the French Senate is cited to support the recommendation to ban alcohol among hunters, highlighting the number of victims and injuries in neighboring France.
The organization contends that hunting under the influence endangers nature, biodiversity, and everyone involved, including bystanders. Incidents described include cases where shooters claimed confusion while firing. The risks rise sharply if a person under the influence fails to recognize a game animal such as a boar, roe deer, or fox as a potential threat.
Questions and answers about minors and hunting in Spain
Information gathered by Efe outlines the conditions under which minors may participate in hunting activities.
- Can a minor go hunting?
Yes, in Spain this is possible when accompanied by an adult and with parental or legal guardian consent.
- Are they allowed to actively participate in the hunt?
Regulations vary by age and by autonomous community. Generally, children under 14 hunt only with an adult present, who remains responsible for the activity. In Andalusia, if a child is under 14, supervision falls to the accompanying hunter.
From age 14, and depending on the region, a minor may use shotguns and rifles.
- Do you need any special authorization?
Using these weapons requires a Civil Guard permit, a valid hunting license, and the explicit consent of parents or guardians when the minor is accompanied by an adult.
- What sanctions apply to minors and those who do not comply with hunting rules?
Each autonomous community has its own sanction framework, typically enforced by competent authorities and the minor’s parents or guardians. In Andalusia, the most serious violations carry penalties of around 60,000 euros, while in Aragon the figure is about 30,000 euros. Secondary sanctions such as suspension, disqualification, or the withdrawal of licenses and weapons are common.
- How often do such events occur?
Two young children have died in hunting-related incidents in Spain over the last decade, a fact that federations describe as rare and exceptional. They also note that other minor incidents do occur in hunting contexts.
- Is legislation change necessary?
The Royal Spanish Hunting Federation argues that changes are not strictly necessary given the low incidence, asserting that children’s participation can be positive if it teaches them safe, knowledgeable practices for the future. They emphasize proper training and supervision as key factors.
- What do environmentalists think?
Environmental groups warn that minor presence in hunts involves significant accident risk because current law places responsibility primarily on families or guardians. While there is some allowance for minors aged 14–18 to hold hunting licenses and use firearms, opponents fear this can lead to dangerous situations, as seen in certain incidents in Guillen a and similar cases. These viewpoints stress caution and stronger regulatory oversight to protect both wildlife and nonparticipants.
Note: This overview summarizes public reporting and official statements about minor participation in hunting and does not replace local regulations. Always consult the latest regional rules for current requirements and penalties.