Modelling stakeholder satisfaction for conflict resolution in wildlife management: a case of wolf population in Sweden

Abstract The Swedish wolf population has rebounded from near extinction in the 1960s to around 365 individuals 2020, after implementation of Hunting Act (jaktlagen) 1966. This recent increase evoked a serious divide between “pro-wolf” and “anti-wolf” citizens. Despite continuous efforts by government reconcile this antagonism, conflicts are persistent with sign impasse. In paper, we present modelling tool, which can bring transparent “structured dialogue opposing positions.” approach includes stylized framework for quantitative stakeholders’ satisfaction levels regarding their preferred size wildlife question, based on concept functions . We argue that may contribute conflict resolution bringing common understanding among stakeholders, facilitate societal discourse, potentially help assess likely support conservation policies. showcase application modeling tool context over model is informed using thorough literature review as well interviews, identified relevant stakeholder groups respective drivers attitudes towards wolves.