BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – The European Commission has inaugurated the Water Resilience Stakeholder Platform in Brussels on Monday, aiming to formalize a space for experts, EU member states, and international observers to collaborate. This platform is designed to facilitate the implementation of the European Water Resilience Strategy, which was adopted in June 2025. It unites 60 specialists from various sectors alongside representatives from member countries. International organizations will participate as observers, contributing external expertise to discussions on water policy, infrastructure, efficiency, and resilience.
The platform is co-chaired by the European Commission, European Economic and Social Committee, and the European Committee of the Regions. The inaugural session featured Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall, EESC President Seamus Boland, and Committee of the Regions Vice-President Carlos Moedas. Topics on the agenda included platform operations, the EU digitalisation plan for water, and water efficiency initiatives. These three institutions will oversee the platform throughout its mandate. This governance structure links the forum directly to EU policy bodies and organized civil society.
The Water Resilience Strategy outlines 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. An overarching EU target aims to improve water efficiency by at least 10% by 2030. The Commission is working on a unified methodology to set water-efficiency goals, while individual member states may establish their own targets based on national conditions.
Platform integrates experts into EU water policy development
The platform was established following a spring 2026 call for specialists in areas such as water governance, efficiency, finance, infrastructure, digitalisation, research, innovation, skills, and preparedness. Members are appointed for five-year terms according to the framework set by the Commission. They are tasked with helping to develop a three-year work program, which will be reviewed annually. The platform is scheduled for two meetings annually in Brussels, except in years when a separate Water Resilience Forum is held.
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 encompasses data-driven systems, smart meters, sensors, and other tools aimed at enhancing infrastructure management and water efficiency. According to Commission materials, smart meters could reduce water consumption by up to 25%, while digital systems and leak detection technologies could generate further savings.
European Water Academy broadens focus on skills and innovation
The Brussels initiative also includes the launch of the European Water Academy later on Monday. This initiative is a flagship component of the Water Resilience Strategy, coordinated by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. Its focus areas include skills development, research, innovation, and technology transfer within the water sector. The launch event features presentations on the academy, its first 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 reveal that only 37% of surface water bodies meet good ecological status, while 85% of bathing-water sites are rated as excellent. Additionally, more than 90% of urban wastewater is treated in accordance with EU standards. The stakeholder platform now serves as an ongoing forum for expert guidance on water protection, efficiency, investment, digitalisation, and access to clean water.