Waterpoort brings together the Dutch water sector and policymakers to shape the future of water internationally
On monday 22 september, more than 80 participants gathered at Nieuwspoort in The Hague for Waterpoort 2025, a high-level dialogue bringing together Members of Parliament, Dutch policymakers, and representatives from the private sector, NGOs and research institutes. Organised by the Netherlands Water Partnership (NWP) and moderated by author, television presenter, and political commentator Splinter Chabot, the debate explored how the Netherlands can strengthen its international reputation as a water nation while unlocking the sector’s economic growth potential.
Debating water policy at a critical moment
Waterpoort is a unique setting where politics, policy and practice meet. In a dynamic debate format, Dutch Members of Parliament Danielle Hirsch (GroenLinks-PvdA) and Ruud Verkuijlen (VVD) engaged with Meike van Ginneken, the Dutch Water Envoy, and leaders from VEI, Nelen & Schuurmans, Woord en Daad, AMREF Health Africa, Deltares, Van Remmen UV Technology and NX Filtration. The event was intentionally scheduled in the week following Prinsjesdag (the opening of the parliamentary year in the Netherlands) and ahead of the upcoming elections – a timely point in time to reflect on priorities for the water sector.
Shared responsibility and future vision
Rick Elmendorp, NWP Director and Chair, opened the discussion. “The world is at a turning point. Water is no longer just a theme, it is a lever for international cooperation, stability and sustainable growth. The Netherlands has everything it takes to lead the way – as long as we collaborate.”
Discussions focused on how the Netherlands can retain its role as a leading water nation in a changing world. Speakers explored the balance between societal impact and economic growth, the importance of innovation, and the value of cross-sector cooperation.
Two panel sessions featuring politicians, NGOs and companies, highlighted the Dutch Government’s role in supporting innovation, noting that legislation such as the EU Water Framework Directive is key to progress. Yet financial returns alone were seen as insufficient. Long-term success depends on investing in people, institutions, and partnerships, while also learning from abroad and remaining a trusted partner. “Water is crucial for our future – and for the future of our children,” said Ton van Remmen (Van Remmen UV Techniek).
Several speakers warned against just focusing on profit. Toine Ramaker (VEI) stressed that achieving SDG 6 calls for building trust and strengthening local institutions. Jacob Jan Vreugdenhil (Woord en Daad) cautioned that prioritising profit undermines reliability, while Fons Nelen (Nelen & Schuurmans) observed that the Netherlands is no longer automatically seen as ‘Waterland’, noting that even Dutch municipalities often rely on American software.
Mutual exchange also emerged as a key theme. Vreugdenhil called for attracting international expertise for Dutch water authorities, while Water Envoy Meike van Ginneken emphasised that the Netherlands also imports knowledge. She underlined that the country’s reputation as a water nation remains strong but needs constant updating. This extends beyond iconic projects such as the Delta Works, to encompass water technology, drinking water companies and much more. “Different approaches can and should coexist,” she said.
Looking ahead, Floris Jan Cuypers (NX Filtration) urged courage and vision. “We are successful abroad thanks to NWP, embassies and partners – but maintaining this position will need boldness and adaptability in the years to come.”
Call for closer collaboration
The debate concluded with a call for closer collaboration between the Government, Parliament, businesses, NGOs and research institutions. The attendants agreed that by working together, the Netherlands can strengthen its global leadership in water while ensuring that growth and responsibility go hand in hand.
About Waterpoort
This special Waterpoort event was organised by the Netherlands Water Partnership (NWP) for the internationally oriented players in the Dutch water sector, and to foster dialogue between the Dutch water sector and political and governmental leaders. Its aim is to ensure that the Netherlands’ world-renowned expertise in water management continues to drive international impact while stimulating economic growth.
Water is a unifying factor across major societal challenges such as climate change, food security, the energy transition, nature conservation, spatial planning, and housing. These interconnected challenges are precisely why Waterpoort was established. Waterpoort serves as a platform for debate on the role of water in addressing the pressing issues of our time.
Over 80 invited guests attended Waterpoort on 22 September 2025. They included Members of Parliament, Members of the European Parliament, policymakers, and senior representatives from across the water sector.
