BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – On Monday, the European Commission introduced the Water Resilience Stakeholder Platform in Brussels, establishing an official forum for experts, EU member states, and international observers. This platform aims to facilitate the implementation of the European Water Resilience Strategy, which was adopted in June 2025. It unites 60 specialists from various sectors along with representatives from member countries. External organizations will participate as observers, providing additional expertise on water policy, infrastructure, efficiency, and resilience issues.
The platform is jointly chaired by the European Commission, European Economic and Social Committee, and European Committee of the Regions. The opening session was attended by Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall, EESC President Seamus Boland, and Committee of the Regions Vice-President Carlos Moedas. Discussions during the meeting focused on the platform’s operations, the EU water-sector digitalisation plan, and water efficiency initiatives. The three institutions will manage the platform throughout its mandate, establishing a direct link between the forum, EU policy bodies, and organized civil society.
The Water Resilience Strategy’s three primary goals for Europe extend through 2050. These goals include restoring and safeguarding the water cycle, fostering a water-smart economy, and ensuring access to safe and affordable water and sanitation. An EU-wide target has been set to enhance water efficiency by at least 10% by 2030. The Commission is working on a shared methodology for water-efficiency targets, with member states permitted to set their own based on national circumstances.
Expert Collaboration Enhances EU Water Policy
Following a call for specialists in water governance, efficiency, finance, infrastructure, digitalisation, research, innovation, skills, and preparedness issued in spring 2026, the platform was formed. Members, appointed for five-year terms, are expected to develop a three-year work programme that will be reviewed annually. The platform is scheduled to meet twice annually in Brussels, barring years when a separate Water Resilience Forum occurs.
Digitalisation represents one of the platform’s initial focus areas. In May, the Commission issued a call for evidence concerning an EU action plan for digital water management. This plan encompasses data-driven systems, smart meters, sensors, and various tools designed to optimise infrastructure management and water efficiency. According to the Commission, smart meters have the potential to reduce water consumption by up to 25%, while digital systems and leak detection methods can further enhance savings.
European Water Academy Broadens Focus on Skill Development
Additionally, the Brussels initiative included the launch of the European Water Academy later on Monday. This new initiative is a key element of the Water Resilience Strategy, coordinated by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. Its focus lies on developing skills, advancing research, fostering innovation, and facilitating technology transfer within the water sector. The launch event featured presentations about the academy, its inaugural EUWA Champions, and the upcoming generation of water professionals.
The broader Water Resilience Strategy encompasses over 50 essential actions monitored by the European Commission. EU statistics reveal that only 37% of surface water bodies reach good ecological status, whereas 85% of bathing-water sites are rated of excellent quality. Moreover, over 90% of urban wastewater is treated according to EU standards. The stakeholder platform now offers a permanent forum for expert guidance on water protection, efficiency, investment, digitalisation, and equitable access to clean water.