Freshwater ecosystems are under growing pressure across Europe: scarcity, pollution, and climate-related risks are on the rise. In response, the European Commission is expected to publish a Water Resilience Strategy in June 2025.
With this Strategy, the European Commission is aiming to address water scarcity, pollution, and efficiency while fostering innovation and a circular economy.
A strategy like this is supposed to set out policy directions, priorities, and actions the Commission would like to pursue around Water Resilience. With this initiative, the Commission is putting forward its vision and suggested actions for the future of the waters of Europe.
Earlier this year, the Commission conducted a Call for Evidence, which concluded in March 2025, gathering nearly 600 submissions from stakeholders, including civil society organizations, public authorities, and industry representatives. This consultation sought input on shaping the scope and objectives of the Strategy, emphasizing the importance of integrating nature-based solutions and freshwater ecosystem restoration into EU policy. To be truly effective, it must integrate nature and freshwater ecosystem restoration at its core.
By highlighting the role of dam removal in enhancing water resilience, improving biodiversity, and mitigating flood risks, we can influence the strategy to prioritize these actions. Moreover, aligning dam removal efforts with the Strategy’s objectives could unlock funding opportunities and foster cross-sectoral collaborations essential for successful river restoration projects.
We will keep you updated on how the strategy develops. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Prepared by Julia Bowerhoff, The Nature Conservancy Europe