On 21 April 2026, the Steering Group of the Danube WILDisland Ramsar Regional Initiative (RRI) convened for an online meeting, bringing together representatives from Moldova, Hungary, Slovakia, Germany, Austria, and DANUBEPARKS.
In accordance with the Terms of Reference, the required quorum was reached, allowing the Steering Group to formally adopt key decisions and advance the initiative’s strategic development.
Strategic Documents Officially Adopted
A major milestone of the meeting was the official adoption of two core strategic documents:
With their approval, both documents now enter into formal implementation, providing a clear framework for the initiative’s activities, priorities, and outreach in the coming years.
Progress and Key Activities
Participants reviewed the progress of activities implemented during 2026, with a particular focus on the Pilot Measures currently being carried out across the Danube region. These measures play a crucial role in testing innovative approaches for wetland conservation, restoration, and sustainable management.
The discussion highlighted ongoing efforts and the importance of continued coordination among partners to ensure successful implementation.
Financial Sustainability and Future Funding
Another important topic addressed during the meeting was the long-term financial sustainability of the Initiative. Members discussed potential funding opportunities, including the need to diversify financial sources and the exploration of national-level funding mechanisms, alongside existing support.
Ensuring stable and predictable funding remains essential for maintaining the initiative’s core functions and enabling the continued implementation of its activities.
Acknowledgements
We would like to sincerely thank all members of the Steering Group for their time and engagement, and for their continued commitment to the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands in the Danube region.
Their active participation and support are key to the successful development and long-term impact of the Danube WILDisland RRI.