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VIENNA, March 22, 2025 (Vienna International Centre) – The retreat of glaciers in the Upper Danube River Basin is one of the most alarming consequences of climate change, says the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR) as it joins the global community in commemorating World Water Day 2025. This year's theme, "Save Our Glaciers," highlights the critical importance of glaciers and the urgent need to address their rapid decline due to climate change. As the climate continues to warm, glaciers worldwide, including those that feed into the Danube River, are melting at unprecedented rates.

At the recent High-Level and Technical Conference in Brdo pri Kranju, Slovenia, ICPDR Executive Secretary Ms. Vogel underscored the important need for stronger coordination in drought management across the Danube region. The conference brought together regional and international organizations to address climate change adaptation challenges in South-Eastern Europe.

LJUBLJANA, Slovenia – In a powerful address at the 10th Meeting of Parties (MOP10), ICPDR President Vladimír Novák of Slovakia reaffirmed the ICPDR’s commitment to safeguarding the Danube River Basin for future generations, particularly as climate change accelerates. This past June marked the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Danube River Protection Convention (DRPC). Signed in Sofia, Bulgaria, the DRPC laid the foundation for the ICPDR’s mission of transboundary cooperation in water management for the Danube River Basin.

The European Environment Agency (EEA) has released its latest report, “Europe’s State of Water 2024: The Need for Improved Water Resilience,” shedding light on the growing challenges to Europe’s water security. The report, which draws on data from the 3rd River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs), highlights significant pressures on surface and groundwater bodies across Europe, emphasizing the need for immediate action to strengthen water resilience.

With the start of her tenure as our Executive Secretary last summer, Birgit Vogel has set out to prioritize building solid professional relationships with ICPDR stakeholders and members, planning to personally visit as many Danube countries as possible. Ms. Vogel met with Uroš Brežan. Slovenian Water Minister, and a broad range of water actors on her latest visit to Slovenia.

8th March 2022, VIENNA – The ICPDR has announced Birgit Vogel as its new Executive Secretary. Ms. Vogel will be taking on the role later this year following the retirement of Ivan Zavadsky after nearly a decade in the role.