On 20–21 November, the picturesque setting of Neusiedler See served as the venue for a pivotal event hosted by FOSTER Europe under the framework of the FOSTER project. This key moment brought together over 50 participants from the public and private sectors, academia, and civil society, aiming to foster a forward-looking, participatory, and transparent approach to tackling regional and trans-border challenges.
The event focused on water management in the Fertö-Neusiedler See region, a unique Austro-Hungarian border area characterised by its distinct climatic and aquatic conditions. The region has long faced challenges related to sustainable water use, challenges now compounded by the effects of climate change. Using this local case study, participants explored strategies to address these pressing issues while considering the interests of a wide range of stakeholders.
The two-day programme featured a dynamic mix of workshops, an expert seminar, a public roundtable, and an engaging role-play exercise for students. Discussions delved into the potential consequences of introducing a large water supply from the Danube River to the region—a project involving an extensive array of stakeholders, including the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River Basin (ICPDR), the federal state of Lower Austria, and local actors.
The event highlighted the importance of building trust and fostering open, transparent dialogue among all stakeholders to address the complex challenges posed by climate change.
The Public conference gathered almost 100 participants, coming from a wide range of European countries, Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting the timeliness of the FOSTER project’s inclusive approach. This method, which advocates for public debate and multi-stakeholder involvement over a 24-month period and beyond, was widely seen as essential for effectively managing water resources and adapting to a changing climate.
Beyond the specific case of water management, the event offered a broader perspective on how inclusive governance can be leveraged to address other trans-border issues. It emphasised the need to build bridges between sectors and nations, ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in the decision-making process.
By facilitating dialogue and encouraging cooperative action, the FOSTER project continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovative and inclusive strategies. This event not only provided a platform for constructive debate but also inspired new approaches to achieving sustainable, long-term solutions for the challenges facing the Fertö-Neusiedler See region and beyond.
