European Bowhunting Federation: EBF

The European Bowhunting Federation (EBF) is a pan-European organisation dedicated to the promotion, development, and recognition of bowhunting as a legitimate and ethical form of hunting. Founded to unite national associations and passionate individuals across Europe, the EBF advocates for responsible wildlife management, conservation, and the preservation of traditional bowhunting practices. In accordance with the principles set out in the European Charter on Hunting and Biodiversity, the federation works closely with stakeholders, policymakers, and the broader hunting community to ensure that bowhunting is practiced with respect for nature, local laws, and cultural heritage. Through collaboration, education, and representation, the EBF stands for sustainable hunting, animal welfare, and actively demonstrates to governments the social, ecological, and practical benefits of including bowhunting as a valuable tool within modern wildlife management strategies.

EBF Board of directors

The European Bowhunting Federation (EBF) is governed by a board of directors composed of experienced bowhunting advocates from various European countries. Each member brings unique national perspectives and expertise to the leadership of the organization.​

EBF Board of Directors

• Anders Gejer – Anders, from Sweden, plays a key role in advancing the EBF's mission to promote ethical and sustainable bowhunting practices across Europe.​
   
• Juha Kylmä and Ari Kontiainen – Both from Finland, Juha and Ari contribute their extensive knowledge of Nordic hunting traditions and regulations, supporting the federation's educational and advocacy efforts.​
   
• Bob Eslampour – Hailing from France, Bob offers valuable insights into bowhunting policies and practices within Western Europe, aiding in the federation's outreach and policy development.​
   
• Ernst Blajs – From Austria, Ernst brings a Central European perspective to the board, assisting in harmonizing bowhunting standards and promoting cross-border collaboration.​
   
• Luc Krols – Based in Belgium, Luc serves as a liaison between the EBF and local hunting communities, facilitating communication and the implementation of federation initiatives.​
   

Together, these board members work collaboratively to uphold the EBF's commitment to responsible bowhunting, education, and conservation throughout Europe.

EBF Organogram:

The European Bowhunting Federation (EBF) is supported by several specialized task force teams that enhance its mission through strategic partnerships, communication, and scientific research.

FACE Representatives

Frank Siedentopf and Luc Krols, both from Belgium, serve as the EBF's official representatives to FACE (the European Federation for Hunting and Conservation). Their dual roles ensure a strong liaison between EBF and FACE, aligning efforts in wildlife conservation, ethical hunting practices, and policy advocacy at the European level.

Communication, Media & Marketing Task Force

This team focuses on the EBF's outreach and public engagement.​

• Seppe Reijniers (Belgium): Responsible for managing the EBF website and newsletters, ensuring timely and informative communication with members and the public.​

• Christian Heinz (Austria): Oversees media and publications, crafting content that promotes the EBF's initiatives and values.​

EBF Scientific Committee

The EBF's Scientific Committee comprises a diverse group of experts who provide research-based insights into bowhunting and wildlife management.​

• Anders Gejer (Sweden):  Anders is the steering force within the EBF Scientific Committee, actively connecting individuals and institutions involved in bowhunting-related scientific research. He plays a vital role in ensuring that knowledge and experience are efficiently shared across projects and national boundaries. Anders is also a strong advocate for science-based decision-making and encourages critical thinking within the hunting community, promoting a culture of evidence-based policy and practice.

• Dr. Luc Krols, Ph.D., MBA (Belgium): A specialist in human gene technology and data science, offering analytical perspectives on hunting practices.​

• Dr. Hans Abel-Reichwald (Austria): A veterinarian providing knowledge on animal health and welfare in the context of hunting.​

• Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hauke Springer (Belgium): An academic contributing engineering insights into hunting equipment and methodologies.​

• Ferre Mannaerts (Belgium): Ferre holds a professional bachelor's degree in agro- and biotechnology with a specialization in green management. His expertise lies in wildlife management, ecology, and environmental stewardship, making him a valuable contributor to the committee’s focus on sustainability and responsible land use. Ferre brings a practical, field-oriented perspective to the team, linking ecological awareness with the real-world application of bowhunting in modern landscape and game management.

• Dr. Bengt Georén (Sweden): A retired general physician offering expertise on the physiological effects of bowhunting on wildlife and a lifetime hunter and bowhunter.​

Together, these task force teams and committees play a crucial role in advancing the EBF's objectives, ensuring that bowhunting is practiced responsibly and sustainably across Europe.

Contact information:

European Bowhunting Federation – “Euroopan jousimetsästysliitto ry”

Finnish Register of Associations Nr. 201811

Contact address:
President Anders Gejer
Al 25
15392 Holo
SWEDEN
anders.gejer@europeanbowhunting.org

The European Bowhunting Federation (EBF) is registered in Finland with the following information:
European Bowhunting Federation EBF
Euroopan Jousimetsästysliitto ry
Kuttulantie, 110
52700 Mäntyharju
Finland,
and is registered under the number 201.811