THE INTRODUCTION OF THE WATER FRAMEWORK DIRECTIVE IN HUNGARY: PILOT PROJECT IN THE UPPER TISZA REGION

As a new member of the European Union, Hungary is obliged to adopt the Water Framework Directive and develop river basin management plans at national, regional and sub-regional levels. To prepare the planning process, a pilot project was conducted, with a focus on the Upper Tisza region, in which the involvement of a multidisciplinary expert group was combined with the participation of local stakeholders. Tools of public participation included public opinion surveys, information campaigns, public forums and a web-site, among others. The paper presents the process of public involvement, with particular attention to the role and reactions of the local communities affected by the project. Key factors of success and failure are analysed and lessons are distilled, by paying a special attention to the dialogue between experts and stakeholders, the handling of policy uncertainties, and the prospect for building trust in institutions.