On Thursday, 24 October, 2024, the Border Focal Point Network hosted the 20th episode of the ‘Beyond Borders’ Breakfast Debate series, centering on the critical topic of “Cross-border Water Supply Networks”.

This edition delved into the vital significance of cooperative management of water resources across national borders within the European Union, where over 60% of the land lies within shared river basins. We discussed about the challenges and complexities associated with cross-border water supply systems, particularly in the context of rising tensions related to water allocation and the growing pressures of climate change and highlighted inspiring examples of successful partnerships in water management, illustrating how joint efforts can lead to innovative solutions and improved resource management. Throughout the session, we acknowledged the significance of cooperation and collaboration in overcoming the challenges associated with cross-border water management.

Featured speakers: 

🎙️ Beniamino Brunati, DG REGIO, European Commission

🎙️ Martin Engelhard, Alderman of the Bad Bergzabern Municipality and representative of the (PAWENA) project

🎙️ Hélène Masliah-Gilkarov, Technical Expert for Public Participation & Communication, International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR)

🎙️ Gintaras Skamaročius, Independent Expert in charge of the Pol-Lith b-solutions Case on cross-border water supply network

Moderator: 

🎙️ Andrew Lansley, Member of the UK House of Lords and LOW Associates Strategic Counsel