BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – On Monday, the European Commission officially established the Water Resilience Stakeholder Platform in Brussels, providing a formal arena for experts, EU member states, and international observers to collaborate. This initiative aims to facilitate the rollout of the European Water Resilience Strategy, adopted in June 2025. The platform unites 60 specialists from diverse sectors along with representatives from member nations, while international organizations will observe to bring external expertise to discussions concerning water policy, infrastructure, efficiency, and resilience.
The platform is jointly led by the European Commission, European Economic and Social Committee, and European Committee of the Regions. During the inaugural session, Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall, EESC President Seamus Boland, and Committee of the Regions Vice-President Carlos Moedas participated. The agenda included topics such as the platform’s operational structure, the EU digitalisation plan for the water sector, and water efficiency initiatives. The three overseeing institutions will manage the platform throughout its term, establishing a direct connection with EU policy bodies and civil society organizations.
The Water Resilience Strategy defines three primary goals for Europe through 2050: restoring and safeguarding the water cycle, fostering a water-smart economy, and guaranteeing access to safe, affordable water and sanitation. It also sets an EU-wide target to boost water efficiency by at least 10% by 2030. While the Commission is working on a common methodology for water-efficiency targets, member states may set individual goals aligned with their national circumstances.
Expert involvement shapes EU water policy development
Following a call in spring 2026 for specialists in areas such as water governance, efficiency, finance, infrastructure, digitalisation, research, innovation, skills, and preparedness, the platform was formed. Members are appointed for five-year terms under the framework outlined by the Commission and are expected to contribute to a three-year work plan, which will be reviewed annually. The platform is scheduled to convene twice yearly in Brussels, except in years when a separate Water Resilience Forum is held.
Digitalisation represents one of the platform’s initial focus areas. In May, the Commission issued a call for evidence regarding an EU action plan for digital water management. This plan involves data-driven systems, smart meters, sensors, and other technological tools designed to enhance infrastructure operation and water conservation. According to Commission reports, smart meters can reduce water consumption by up to 25%, while digital systems and leak detection techniques can contribute additional savings.
European Water Academy broadens skills development efforts
The Brussels initiative also marked the launch of the European Water Academy later on Monday. This academy is a key measure within the Water Resilience Strategy, coordinated by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. Its focus areas include skills enhancement, research, innovation, and technology transfer within the water sector. The launch event featured presentations about the academy, its first EUWA Champions, and the next generation of water professionals.
The broader Water Resilience Strategy encompasses over 50 key actions monitored by the Commission. EU data reveals that just 37% of surface water bodies meet good ecological status, whereas 85% of bathing-water sites are of excellent quality. Additionally, more than 90% of urban wastewater treatment complies with EU standards. The stakeholder platform now functions as a permanent forum for expert advice on water protection, efficiency, investment, digitalisation, and access to clean water.