Navigating Europe’s Water Challenges: Building Resilience through Science and Policy - High level Event, Brussels and Online 22 June 2026
This high-level policy event, organised by the Horizon Europe projects SOS-Water and STARS4Water, brings together leading researchers, policymakers, river basin authorities, and water stakeholders to explore how scientific evidence can support more resilient and sustainable water management across Europe and beyond.
Why Attend?
By participating, you will:
- Gain insights into the latest scientific advances in water resilience and climate adaptation
- Learn about innovative modelling approaches, Earth Observation tools, and stakeholder-driven solutions
- Hear lessons learned from major river basins including the Rhine, Danube, Mekong, Seine, Drammen, Duero, and Júcar
- Engage directly with European policymakers, river basin organisations, and water experts
- Contribute to discussions that will inform future policy recommendations for water resilience
Programme Highlights
Opening Perspectives
Joachim Maes (European Commission, DG Environment), Taher Kahil (IIASA, SOS-Water), and Harm Duel (Deltares, STARS4Water) will introduce the key water challenges facing Europe and the role of research and innovation in supporting policy development.
Scientific Results for Policy
Leading researchers will present the latest project findings:
- Andrea Castelletti (Politecnico di Milano, SOS-Water) – The Safe Operating Space framework and results from European and international case studies
- Judith ter Maat (Deltares, STARS4Water) – Co-creating tools and services with river basin stakeholders to support climate-resilient water management
Expert Policy Panel: From Evidence to Action
Representatives from the Rhine and Danube river basins, leading research institutions, and European water policy initiatives will discuss how scientific results can support practical decision-making and water resilience planning.
Policy Dialogue: Turning Science into Action
A second high-level panel featuring experts from the European Commission, river basin organisations, EurAqua, and the European Parliament will explore how scientific evidence can be translated into effective policies and governance approaches. Participants will have the opportunity to contribute their perspectives and policy priorities.
Closing Session
The event will conclude with key takeaways and the presentation of next steps towards a joint SOS-Water & STARS4Water Policy Brief.
Who Should Attend?
- EU and national policymakers
- River basin authorities and water agencies
- Researchers and innovation experts
- NGOs and environmental organisations
- Water, climate, and sustainability professionals
- Representatives from international organisations and stakeholder networks
Event Format
📅 22 June 2026
📍 The Polish National Centre for Research and Development Office, Brussels
💻 Hybrid Event – In-person and Online Participation Available
☕ Registration, networking lunch, and coffee from 13:00
🎤 Policy programme from 14:00 to 17:00
Limited places are available for in-person participation. Registration is required.