Webinar // Localising the WEFE nexus in cities: Translating EU policy into urban investments

The EU stands at a critical juncture, where sustaining leadership on climate adaptation, in an integrated way, is vital to addressing global challenges, securing strategic interests, and maintaining credibility as a trusted international partner. As climate risks and geopolitical tensions escalate, robust funding for external adaptation is essential for global stability and European security. However, rising insularity and uneven climate finance commitments risk eroding trust with key partners, particularly in the Southern Mediterranean. The new European Commission has a pivotal opportunity to reinforce the EU’s geopolitical standing, with upcoming long-term budget negotiations playing a key role in balancing global leadership with domestic priorities.

Cities, as hubs of innovation and first responders to climate shocks, play a pivotal role in addressing challenges like water scarcity, energy crises, food insecurity, and ecosystem degradation—especially within the WEFE (Water, Energy, Food, and Ecosystems) nexus. Local governments in countries in the Southern Mediterranean have demonstrated leadership through transformative projects tackling these issues. However, they face significant barriers, including capacity gaps, limited funding, and isolation amid regional crises and mounting climate stress.

This roundtable brought together practitioners and policymakers to explore how EU policies can be translated into actionable strategies that localise the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) nexus in urban contexts. The discussion focussed on mobilising tangible investments in urban adaptation and empowering cities to address critical challenges such as water scarcity, energy crises, food insecurity, and ecosystem degradation. By fostering integrated, locally-driven solutions, the EU can advance sustainable urban development and reinforce its leadership in global climate adaptation efforts.