The Danube River is more than a waterway; it’s a shared resource that connects multiple countries and ecosystems. Managing its environmental challenges requires innovative, cross-border cooperation. The Danube Region Strategy (EUSDR), particularly its Priority Area 5 (PA5), addresses these critical issues, including water management, disaster resilience, and environmental protection.

Advancing Cross-Border Collaboration

Hungary and Romania have spearheaded initiatives like the Danube Region Operative Flood Management and Cooperation Programme (DR Oper&Cooper) to enhance collaboration across all 14 Danube countries. These initiatives have included comprehensive surveys and engagements aimed at fostering better cooperation.

However, challenges remain, especially in communication and resource allocation for EU accession countries. To address these, PA5 initiated a series of targeted consultations. The first was held on 27 – 28 November 2024 in Belgrade, Serbia, gathering stakeholders from the European Commission, Danube Strategy Point, EUSDR PA5, and Serbian institutions. The focus was on enhancing water and disaster management strategies.

Key Discussions and Initiatives

The event highlighted the progress of the Disaster Management Working Group (DMWG) and the role of young professionals in promoting sustainable practices. Discussions delved into flood risk management, drought impacts, and disaster preparedness.

Notable Projects:

• Flood Forecasting and Risk Reduction (DiMaND Project, 2021): This initiative improved flood risk management using nature-based solutions, such as restoring floodplains. Advanced tools like the Danube HIS enhanced early warning systems and coordination between countries.
• The WILDFIREX Project enhanced wildfire response through cross-border cooperation and innovative tools like drones, while the STOP FIRES Project focuses on fire disaster management in Hungary and Serbia, emphasising community education and cross-border emergency plans.
• DAREX (Danube Region Flood Risk and Emergency Management): This project promotes a coordinated approach to flood management across borders, harmonizing strategies and integrating advanced forecasting tools.
• Danube Forecasting Forum (DAFF) 2023: Held in Budapest, this forum discussed advancements in flood forecasting and data sharing.

Future Directions

The consultation in Belgrade laid the foundation for better integration and cooperation, especially involving EU accession countries. The event underscored the need for:

• Nature-Based Solutions: Expanding urban wetlands to manage floods and streamline permitting processes.
• Enhanced Flood Forecasting Models: Strengthening cross-border collaboration between hydropower and civil protection agencies.
• Public Engagement: Simplifying technical data for public use and enhancing NGO-media partnerships.
• Standardised Training: Initiatives like STOP FIRES highlight the importance of harmonised practices and joint exercises.

Next Steps

With Bosnia and Herzegovina set to hold the EUSDR Presidency in 2025, a follow-up meeting is planned for Sarajevo in spring 2025, continuing efforts to strengthen regional cooperation. Similar initiatives will further integrate EU accession countries into PA5’s environmental strategies, ensuring a more resilient and collaborative Danube Region.

 

More information is available here.