Abstract
Countries use lethal control as a tool to respond to human–large carnivore conflicts to varying degrees. The aim of this study was to explore the complexities surrounding the often-controversial decision to lethally manage carnivores. We examined the cases of the tiger ( Panthera tigris ) in India and the wolf ( Canis lupus ) in Germany. This study used an Institutional Analysis and Development framework to analyze contrasting sociopolitical processes. Through a review of legislative documents ( n = 44) and interviews with experts ( n = 47), the study examined the intricacies and challenges of the decision-making process and its implementation. While both countries were restrictive in their use of lethal control, decisions were primarily shaped by culturally embedded tolerance thresholds, accountability structures of decision-makers and influential societal factors. The findings demonstrate that effective carnivore management requires careful institutional design balancing scientific evidence with democratic participation. Graphical abstract