The thematic workshop “Stronger Together – Enhancing Regional Cooperation in the Danube Basin” took place on 3 April 2025 in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, as part of the Presidency programme of the European Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR). The aim of the event was to strengthen cross-border cooperation in the areas of water management, disaster management and climate risk management. More than 80 experts, decision-makers, civil society and youth actors from EU and non-EU Member States, including representatives from the European Commission, the Danube Strategy Point, the Regional Cooperation Council, the ICPDR and the Sava Commission, participated in the event. Dr. Judit Füzér, Deputy Director of the Pannon European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation, participated in the event through the support programme launched by CESCI this year for its members, which facilitates participation in relevant professional programmes.

The program focused on flash flood forecasting, the use of nature-based solutions (NBS), volunteer coordination, and the use of artificial intelligence in forecasting systems. Participants discussed local preparedness, community communication, and youth participation in interactive “World Café” discussions. Common challenges were also highlighted during the event, such as the reliability of forecasting systems, complex licensing procedures, and the lack of sharing of professional information in a user-friendly format.

One of the most important outcomes of the event was the development of a targeted Action Plan, which outlines six priorities: including the promotion of NBS implementation, the development of forecasting and data-sharing platforms, and the involvement of youth and civil society actors in risk communication. The organizers left the consultation process open, allowing for additional suggestions, project ideas, and collaboration opportunities. The workshop confirmed that macro-regional, inclusive and practice-oriented cooperation is key to increasing the resilience and adaptive capacity of the Danube region.

The presentations can be downloaded here.