Hrvatski
The 3rd International Conference on River Protection in Southeast Europe, held from 8 – 10 April 2025 in Skopje, North Macedonia, successfully concluded after three intensive days of dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaborative planning. Organized by The Nature Conservancy and Eko-svest under the umbrella of the United for Rivers initiative, the event brought together more than 100 participants, including conservationists, policymakers, scientists, civil society representatives, and community leaders from across the Southeast Europe and beyond.
The conference highlighted several critical themes central to ensuring the durable protection and restoration of river ecosystems in the region.
Regional Cooperation—A Foundation for Success
Throughout the conference, case studies from Albania’s Vjosa River, Croatia’s Mrežnica and Tounjčica, and Montenegro’s Bistrica River demonstrated the tangible impact of collaboration. Partners within the United for Rivers initiative shared successes, challenges, and practical insights, underscoring how coordinated regional action significantly enhances conservation outcomes.
Innovation and Integrative Solutions
Participants discussed about groundbreaking approaches including nature-based wastewater treatment systems, targeted removal of obsolete river barriers, and the innovative use of cultural heritage protection laws for river conservation purposes. These examples highlighted a shared understanding that traditional conservation measures must evolve to include integrative and culturally informed strategies.
Integrated Watershed Management
Experts emphasized the need for holistic planning that simultaneously addresses ecological integrity, economic sustainability, and social needs within watersheds. Insights from international and regional case studies provided strong evidence that integrated solutions not only benefit river ecosystems but also bolster community resilience.
Sustainable Financing: Aligning Policy and Practice
A major focus of the conference was on identifying viable financing mechanisms to support durable river protection. Presentations and panel discussions explored successful strategies including public-private partnerships, 2030 EU Biodiversity Strategy, innovative funding models, and community-driven crowdfunding campaigns, all designed to secure lasting financial support for conservation projects.
Community Engagement and Empowerment
Arguably the most resonant theme was the essential role of communities and their involvement in achieving durable river protection. Participants consistently reiterated that effective conservation must center around local communities, acknowledging their critical role in stewardship, advocacy, and direct action.
The conference concluded with a clear recognition that Southeast Europe is home to some of the last free-flowing rivers on the continent, holding immense ecological, cultural, and economic value both regionally and globally. The commitment expressed by all stakeholders reaffirmed the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems through continued collaboration, innovation, and inclusive engagement.
Looking forward, conference participants and organizers expressed optimism and determination to continue strengthening partnerships, scaling successful initiatives, and fostering community-led movements dedicated to river protection. The Nature Conservancy and its partners within the United for Rivers initiative remain deeply committed to advancing these priorities in the coming years.
