Thomas Bajada Named “Water-Smart MEP Of The Year” During The Water Innovation Conference In Denmark

Maltese Member of the European Parliament Thomas Bajada has been awarded the Water-Smart MEP of the Year title for 2025 during the Water Innovation Conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark. The award recognises his leadership in shaping the European Water Resilience Strategy and his contribution to strengthening sustainable water management across Europe.

Presented by Water Europe, the award celebrates Bajada’s efforts to place water security at the heart of policymaking a move seen as a cultural shift in European policy design. The Water Resilience Strategy, for which Bajada served as rapporteur, sets out a new vision for managing water as a strategic and shared resource essential for climate adaptation, food security, and industrial competitiveness.

In his acceptance speech, Bajada stated that the award “is not about a single report, but about the communities and professionals who make water sustainability a reality: scientists, farmers, and coastal regions.” He added, “The work we do in Parliament only matters if it reaches beyond Brussels if it brings about real change in people’s lives.”

The recognition follows more than a year of work that has already led to tangible progress, including initiatives to increase access to drinking water, a public awareness campaign, and new measures promoting water efficiency at both national and European levels.

“This recognition belongs to everyone,” Bajada said. “To all those who believe that a sustainable water future is possible. Water connects everything we do and it is time we start treating it that way.”

The Water-Smart MEP Award, presented annually by Water Europe, honours Members of the European Parliament who demonstrate outstanding commitment to sustainable and innovative water policies across the European Union. Bajada’s achievement confirms the positive shift his work is driving within European policymaking.

#MaltaDaily