Europe’s water sector is under increasing pressure from water scarcity, floods, pollution, climate change, ageing infrastructure and growing skills shortages. At the same time, ambitious EU policies must be translated into effective action on the ground.
The 20th EWA Brussels Conference, taking place on 24 November 2026 at VIVAQUA, Brussels, will bring together representatives from European institutions, water utilities, national associations, academia and industry to discuss how Europe can strengthen water security and resilience.
Under the theme “Water Security in a Europe Under Pressure”, the conference will explore four key topics:
- Session 1: Delivering Europe´s Water Policy
During this session, we will discuss the EU Water policy direction and its vision for the future of the water sector in Europe but also its impact on the environment and economical actors.
- Session 2: Water Security in a Changing Climate
This session will focus on water security in the context of climate change and its growing impacts across Europe. It will offer a forum for policymakers and practitioners to exchange views on current water challenges, evaluate the EU’s legal and policy framework, and discuss pathways towards a more resilient and secure water future.
- Session 3: UWWTD: From Policy to Practice
How is the revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive being translated into action across Europe? After an update from a European Commission representative, EWA members will present their national and local implementation experiences. A concluding panel discussion will examine the challenges, opportunities and lessons emerging as Member States move from EU legislation to practical delivery
- Session 4: Building the Future Water Workforce
As the water sector is facing several challenges, one of them is the ageing workforce. We will dive into the upcoming EU Water Academy and the expectations from water actors about it.
Through keynote presentations, panel discussions and practical case studies, participants will exchange experiences and identify solutions to help deliver Europe’s water ambitions.
