RA VI-19 concludes in Bucharest with renewed momentum for Region VI
Last week in Bucharest, Romania, WMO Regional Association VI (Europe) brought together Members, partners and experts for an inspiring week of dialogue, cooperation and action to strengthen weather, water and climate services across the Region.
The week included the HydroSOS Workshop and the RA VI Regional Conference 2026, culminating in the successful conclusion of Phase II of the nineteenth session of Regional Association VI (RA VI-19). The meetings provided an important opportunity to exchange experiences, strengthen partnerships and agree on priorities that will guide the work of RA VI in the years ahead.
Key outcomes
Strengthening observations and information exchange: RA VI advanced the implementation of the Regional Basic Observing Network (RBON) and emphasized stronger exchange of observational data to address priority hazards, including floods, droughts, thunderstorms and heatwaves, across the Region. This will strengthen the information backbone needed for improved weather, water and climate services.
Advancing climate and hydrological services: Members endorsed the continued development of the RA VI Regional Climate Centre Network, including improved climate information for drought and other climate-related risks. The RA VI Hydrological Assembly also highlighted the importance of improving hydrological observations, data exchange and cooperation, particularly to support flood and drought early warnings.
Accelerating implementation of Early Warnings for All: The RA VI Regional Conference reinforced the Region's commitment to accelerating Early Warnings for All, emphasizing regional knowledge exchange, peer cooperation, innovation, partnerships and investment in future skills. The discussions underlined that effective early warnings depend not only on strong forecasting, but also on preparedness, communication and the ability to reach communities with actionable information.
New leadership for RA VI
RA VI-19 also marked a new chapter in the leadership of the Regional Association.
Congratulations to Andreas Schaffhauser of Austria, elected president of RA VI, and Irakli Megrelidze of Georgia, elected vice-president.
RA VI also extends its sincere appreciation to outgoing president Elena Mateescu and vice-president Mark Rieder for their dedication, leadership and valuable contributions to the Region.
A warm thank you to Romania for hosting the RA VI community in Bucharest, and to all Members, delegates, partners, speakers, organizers and colleagues who contributed to a successful week.
We leave Bucharest with renewed momentum, strengthened partnerships and a shared commitment to building an even stronger, more connected and resilient Region VI.
- Region:
- Region VI: Europe