The Association aims to promote the interests of water boards at a national and international level. All 27 water boards are member of the Association. It is especially about the safeguarding of interests with regard to third parties, more particularly the national government and parliament. This function becomes apparent, for example, in consultations with the ministries and Members of Parliament, in comments on policy documents and memorandums, in the participation of advisory and consultative bodies, and so on. The more the influence of European regulation increases, the more international the character of this promotion of interests becomes. The Association is member of the following European organisations: EUREAU, EUWMA and EWA. In addition to external promotion of interests, the Association also supports water boards for instance in legal affairs.
Vision
The water sector is always on the move. Climate change, political shifts and technological developments mean that water boards must always be prepared for new situations. The Unie van Waterschappen is their captain. The Union develops a vision, structure and working methods to work together on dry feet, clean water and sufficient water.
The Association of Water Boards is a leading player with expertise in the field of regional water management. Through coordination of the Union, water boards work together better for a safe, sustainable and clean Netherlands.
The Association of Water Boards connects the water boards with governments, the business community and knowledge institutions and is a self-evident discussion partner for these parties and politicians in The Hague. The Union plays an important role in the complex environment of different layers of government and interests.
By sharing the know-how and expertise of the water boards, the Association of Water Boards stimulates the emergence of innovative initiatives and valuable networks.
