The health of Europe’s oceans and freshwater systems is deeply interconnected and essential to the continent’s ecological and economic resilience. In 2025, the EU Water Resilience Strategy and the European Ocean Pact marked a significant shift in Europe’s environmental agenda. Against this backdrop, the European Forum Alpbach, together with Europe Jacques Delors and Club Alpbach France, brought together experts, young people, civil society, and industry representatives to turn high-level commitments into practical proposals. The workshop highlighted the need for coherent governance across marine and freshwater policies, more inclusive participation, and stronger accountability mechanisms, promoting an integrated vision that unites ocean, water, climate, and biodiversity objectives under a truly “One Water Regime” approach.