BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – On Monday, the European Commission inaugurated the Water Resilience Stakeholder Platform in Brussels. This initiative creates an official 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 assembles 60 specialists from various sectors along with representatives from member countries. International organizations will serve as observers, contributing external expertise to discussions concerning water policy, infrastructure, efficiency, and resilience.
The platform is co-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 covered platform operations, the EU water-sector digitalisation plan, and water efficiency initiatives. These three institutions will oversee the platform throughout its duration. This structure links the forum directly to EU policy bodies and organized civil society groups.
The Water Resilience Strategy establishes three primary goals for Europe through 2050. These include restoring and safeguarding the water cycle and fostering a water-smart economy. It also aims to ensure safe and affordable water and sanitation for all. The strategy sets a target for the EU to boost water efficiency by at least 10% by 2030. The Commission is working on a joint methodology for water-efficiency targets, while member states can set their own goals based on national conditions.
Expert platform integrates into EU water policy development
This platform was established following a spring 2026 call for specialists in water governance, efficiency, finance, infrastructure, digitalisation, research, innovation, skills, and preparedness. Members are appointed for five-year terms in accordance with the framework laid out by the Commission. They are expected to contribute to a three-year work programme, which will be reviewed annually. The terms of the platform stipulate two meetings per year in Brussels, except during years when a separate Water Resilience Forum is held.
Digitalisation is among the platform’s initial priorities. In May, the Commission issued a call for evidence concerning an EU action plan for digital water management. This plan includes data-driven systems, smart meters, sensors, and other digital tools aimed at improving infrastructure management and water efficiency. According to the Commission, smart meters can reduce water consumption by up to 25%. Additional savings can be achieved through digital systems and leak detection technologies.
European Water Academy broadens focus on skills development and innovation
Brussels also announced the launch of the European Water Academy later on Monday. This initiative is a key action under the Water Resilience Strategy. Its coordination is led by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. The academy emphasizes skills, research, innovation, and technology transfer within the water sector. The launch event featured presentations on the academy’s mission, 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 indicate that only 37% of surface water bodies meet good ecological status standards. Meanwhile, 85% of bathing-water sites are rated with excellent quality. More than 90% of urban wastewater is processed according to EU standards. The stakeholder platform now provides a continuous forum for expert advice on water protection, efficiency, investment, digitalisation, and access to clean water.