Photo: Borjomi-Kharagauli NP archiveEuropean wilderness is scattered all over the continent. Smaller or bigger fragments can be found literally in every corner of Europe. Many relatively large fragments of wilderness are still hidden in existing protected areas and in other cases small patches of wilderness areas can be found all over in the form of strictly protected areas or nature reserves. However, there are many fragments of wilderness still outside the legally designated protected areas.

Wilderness in Europe is therefore sometimes more and sometimes less visible. The challenge is to identify these fragments and recognise wilderness: for example inside already existing protected areas.

And there is unlimited potential for European wilderness if we believe that wilderness can be restored. It requires a clear strategy and objectives, clear ideas and smart decisions especially in the context of large-scale (landscape) restoration projects where wilderness concept has to play an essential role to protect crucial habitat for many keystone species.