The NALAS Working Group on Water Management continues to strengthen regional cooperation and knowledge exchange in the water and sanitation sector through the Regional Capacity Development Network for Water and Sanitation Services (RCDN+).
Bringing together representatives of Local Government Associations (LGAs), national water and sanitation committees, the International Association of Waterworks in the Danube River Catchment Area (IAWD), and other regional stakeholders, the Working Group met in Skopje to define future priorities for the sector while reinforcing capacities for innovation and sustainable service delivery.
Shaping the Future of Water Management
The two-day meeting combined strategic planning with practical capacity development. Participants reviewed the achievements of the 2024–2025 Action Plan, discussed recent developments and common challenges across South East Europe, and jointly developed the new Action Plan for 2026–2027.
The discussions reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation in supporting local governments and public water utilities in addressing key sector challenges, including infrastructure modernization, financial sustainability, digital transformation, and climate resilience.
A particular focus was placed on the role of digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the water sector. Through interactive sessions, participants explored practical applications of AI and digital tools for reducing non-revenue water, predictive maintenance, smart metering, asset management, water quality monitoring, and customer services. The programme also addressed regulatory aspects, including the EU AI Act and GDPR, as well as institutional readiness for digital transformation.
Sharing Regional Success Stories
One of the key outcomes of the Working Group’s collaboration is the publication of the Collection of Best Practices in Asset Management, Capital Infrastructure Investments, and Energy Efficiency in Water Services.
Developed by the NALAS Working Group on Water Management within RCDN+, the publication showcases successful initiatives from across South East Europe that demonstrate practical approaches to improving water service delivery and increasing the resilience of utilities and local governments.
The collection focuses on three strategic areas that are essential for sustainable water management:
- Asset Management
- Capital Infrastructure Investments
- Energy Efficiency and Climate Impact
By documenting successful projects and proven methodologies from across the region, the publication enables municipalities, utilities and sector professionals to learn from one another, replicate effective solutions, and avoid common implementation challenges. It serves as a valuable regional knowledge resource supporting better planning, more efficient investments, and improved service quality.
Strengthening Regional Learning through RCDN+
The activities of the NALAS Working Group demonstrate how RCDN+ serves as a platform for regional knowledge exchange, peer learning and institutional cooperation. By connecting local governments, utilities and sector experts, RCDN+ supports the development of practical solutions that contribute to stronger institutions and more sustainable water and sanitation services throughout the Western Balkans.
The combination of strategic dialogue, capacity development, innovation and documented best practices equips regional stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to address current and future challenges while advancing alignment with European standards and improving services for citizens.
