River basins don’t adhere to political boundaries. As a result cross-border cooperation is a necessary element to effectively manage flood and drought on the river basins scale. The 2021 floods highlighted that stronger cooperation, in particular in regional basins, have the potential to strengthen the regions resilience in the face of extreme climate events. This research explores what such cooperation looks like from different perspectives, what drives it, and how it can be strengthened.
Research topic explained
Each region brings its own needs, priorities and working practices, shaping both the purpose and the expected outcomes of cross-border cooperation. By partnering with practitioners, we explore how cooperation unfolds in practice, and what helps it succeed. Drawing on successful examples from inside and outside the region, we aim to develop strategies for tailored cross-border cooperation that support regions in being better prepared for extreme climate events.
I am currently exploring how regional practitioners in German, Dutch, and Belgian border areas perceive and enact cross-border cooperation for flood and drought management. The study examines what different forms of cooperation can achieve and how they connect to the goals and responsibilities of various actors. Insights will help map roles, understand how cooperation unfolds in practice, and support more resilient regional responses.
Data collection in ongoing until end of February. If you would like to contribute with your perspective, I would love to get in touch you!