EU Water Diplomacy: A Critical Tool for Regional Stability
Publication Date:
2025
Pages:
5
Item Reference:
IB-2025-15
Publication Place:
Bruges
Publication Language:
EN
Copyright Holder:
UNU Institute on Comparative Regional Integration Studies
Copyright Year:
2025
Policy Brief Type:
Abstract:
- Over 310 river basins and 468 aquifers worldwide are shared by multiple countries, necessitating cooperation to balance human, economic, and environmental needs.
- The Water Framework Directive and Floods Directive promote cross-border water management, but challenges persist, particularly with non-EU states.
- Cases like the Oder River pollution (Germany-Poland) and Danube navigation tensions (Hungary-Serbia) highlight ongoing ecological and economic conflicts.
- Diplomatic negotiations at multiple levels (Track 1–3) help prevent conflicts and strengthen cooperation over shared water resources.
- The International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine (ICPR) demonstrates how sustained multilateral efforts can successfully address pollution and foster regional stability.
