BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – On Monday, the European Commission inaugurated the Water Resilience Stakeholder Platform in Brussels, aiming to formalize a space for experts, EU member states, and international observers to collaborate. This platform is designed to facilitate the execution of the European Water Resilience Strategy, which was adopted in June 2025, by bringing together 60 specialists from various sectors along with representatives from member countries. Observers from international organizations will also participate, contributing external expertise to discussions surrounding water policy, infrastructure, efficiency, and resilience initiatives.
The platform is jointly led by the European Commission, the European Economic and Social Committee, and the European Committee of the Regions. The inaugural session saw Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall, EESC President Seamus Boland, and Committee of the Regions Vice-President Carlos Moedas all taking part. Discussions during the meeting focused on platform management, the EU’s digitalisation plan for the water sector, and strategies for water efficiency. Throughout its term, the platform will be overseen by these three institutions, establishing a direct link with EU policy agencies and civil society organizations.
The core objectives of the Water Resilience Strategy for Europe extend through 2050 and aim to restore and safeguard the water cycle, foster a water-smart economy, and ensure access to safe, affordable water and sanitation. A key target set by the strategy is to boost water efficiency across the EU by at least 10% by 2030, with the Commission working on a unified methodology for water-efficiency targets, while individual member states may determine their own goals based on national circumstances.
Expert collaboration enhances EU water policy development
Following a call for specialists in areas such as water governance, efficiency, financing, infrastructure, digitalisation, research, innovation, skills, and preparedness issued in spring 2026, the platform members are appointed for five-year terms under the Commission’s framework. These experts are expected to contribute to the formulation of a three-year work plan, subject to annual reviews. The platform’s structure stipulates two gatherings each year in Brussels, except during years when a separate Water Resilience Forum convenes.
Digitalisation ranks among the platform’s initial priorities. In May, the Commission launched a call for evidence regarding an EU action plan for digital water management, which emphasizes data-driven systems, smart meters, sensors, and other technological tools intended to enhance infrastructure efficiency and water conservation. According to Commission reports, the installation of smart meters can reduce water consumption by up to 25%, with additional savings possible through digital systems and leak detection technologies.
European Water Academy to Focus on Skills Development
The Brussels initiative will also see the launch of the European Water Academy later on Monday, representing a flagship component of the Water Resilience Strategy. Coordinated by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, this academy emphasizes skills, research, innovation, and technology transfer within the water sector. The launch event will feature presentations on the academy’s goals, its first EUWA Champions, and the future workforce of water professionals.
The overarching Water Resilience Strategy encompasses over 50 key actions monitored by the Commission. Data indicates that only 37% of surface water bodies meet good ecological status, while 85% of bathing-water sites are rated with excellent quality. Additionally, more than 90% of urban wastewater is treated in accordance with EU standards. The stakeholder platform now serves as a permanent forum where experts can advise on water protection, efficiency measures, investments, digitalisation, and access to clean water.