Around 150 key sector representatives from entities such as national utility associations, the regional network of associations of local authorities, water and wastewater utilities, line ministries, regulatory authorities, the donor community and other international associations will gather to discuss progress made and challenges lying ahead in the water supply and sanitation sector of the Danube region.

The two-day conference will start with an overview of the State of the Sector review, conducted by the World Bank with the assistance of a large number of external partners.

The European Integration agenda, which drives much of the change in the region, will be a recurring theme and will be highlighted in separate sessions, as well. It is generally agreed upon that a common understanding of policies, strategies, concepts, roles and practices among decision makers leads to improved regional cooperation and services in the water sector. Therefore, stakeholders from the Danube region at national and local levels will convene to discuss the State of the Sector and what they jointly can do better to achieve smart policies, strong utilities and sustainable water services.