During its September plenary session, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) stressed the importance of treating water as a strategic priority for Europe.
The session saw the adoption of three new opinions on water policy and highlighted the EESC’s ongoing commitment to the EU Blue Deal. The Committee called for better cross-sectoral policy integration and proposed a "water test" for new EU legislation to ensure water considerations are included.
The EU is prioritizing water in its climate and economic agenda. Pernille Weiss-Ehler, from Commissioner Roswall’s Cabinet, acknowledged that the EESC’s efforts contributed to the Water Resilience Strategy, which was adopted in June. The first step in its implementation will be the Water Resilience Forum - European Commission on December 8.
The three opinions adopted provide a comprehensive approach to water resilience. They include support for the Water Resilience Strategy, a call for stronger governance and funding, the integration of water efficiency targets, and coordination between water, digitalisation, and decarbonisation. The opinions also stress the EU’s global responsibility, urging water considerations in foreign policy, especially in regions with water scarcity or transboundary issues. The EESC remains committed to keeping water a top priority on the EU agenda.
The EESC (European Economic and Social Committee) is an advisory body of the European Union (EU) that represents civil society organizations, such as employers, workers, and other interest groups, at the EU level.
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Access the opinion on the European Water Resilience Strategy: ici
Access the opinion on water resilience and the twin transition: ici
Access the opinion on blue diplomacy and water cooperation: ici
