BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – On Monday in Brussels, the European Commission officially launched the Water Resilience Stakeholder Platform, establishing a formal space for experts, EU member states, and international observers to collaborate. The platform aims to facilitate the execution 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. Observers from international organizations will also take part, contributing external expertise to discussions surrounding water policy, infrastructure, efficiency, and resilience.
The platform is jointly chaired by the European Economic and Social Committee and the European Committee of the Regions, with the European Commission playing a leading role. During the opening session, Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall, EESC President Seamus Boland, and Committee of the Regions Vice-President Carlos Moedas participated. The agenda for the inaugural meeting included platform operations, the EU water-sector digitalisation plan, and water efficiency initiatives. The three institutions will oversee the platform during its tenure, connecting it directly with EU policy bodies and civil society organizations.
The Water Resilience Strategy outlines three primary goals for Europe through 2050. These include restoring and safeguarding the water cycle, fostering a water-smart economy, and guaranteeing safe, affordable water and sanitation. Additionally, the strategy sets a target for the EU to enhance water efficiency by a minimum of 10% by 2030. The Commission is working on a joint methodology for water-efficiency targets, while member states may establish their own goals based on national circumstances.
Expert Platform Supports EU Water Policy Development
The platform was established following a call in spring 2026 for specialists in areas such as water governance, efficiency, finance, infrastructure, digitalisation, research, innovation, skills, and preparedness. Appointments are for five-year terms under the framework set by the Commission. Members are expected to contribute to formulating a three-year work plan that will undergo annual evaluation. The platform’s mandate includes two annual meetings in Brussels, with exceptions during years when a separate Water Resilience Forum is organized.
Digitalisation is among 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 addresses data-driven systems, smart meters, sensors, and other technological tools aimed at improving water infrastructure management and efficiency. According to Commission sources, smart meters could reduce water consumption by up to 25%, while digital systems and leak detection technologies can provide additional savings.
European Water Academy to Broaden Skills Development
The Brussels initiative also includes the launch of the European Water Academy later Monday. This initiative is a key component of the Water Resilience Strategy, coordinated by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. Its focus lies on skills, research, innovation, and technology transfer within the water sector. The launch event features presentations about the academy, its inaugural EUWA Champions, and the upcoming generation of water professionals.
The broader Water Resilience Strategy encompasses over 50 key actions monitored by the Commission. EU data indicate that only 37% of surface water bodies meet good ecological status, while 85% of bathing-water sites are classified as excellent. More than 90% of urban wastewater is processed according to EU standards. The stakeholder platform now functions as an ongoing forum for expert advice on water protection, efficiency, investment, digitalisation, and access to clean water.