16 April 2025 | In a region where climate change is not a distant threat but a present-day reality, the Mediterranean faces growing water scarcity, rising temperatures, and increasing pressure on ecosystems and communities. Enter NEXTGEN4MED — a bold, collaborative youth-led initiative designed to equip a new generation of young scientists, practitioners, and innovators with the tools, knowledge, and connections essential for fostering water-resilient societies in the region. The idea behind NEXTGEN4MED was sparked by a simple yet powerful observation: that addressing the Mediterranean’s complex water challenges requires more than just advanced science or policy; it requires people, especially young, empowered individuals who can bridge disciplines, navigate complexity and diverse socio-ecological contexts, and ignite collaborative action across borders.

NEXTGEN4MED is more than an initiative— it’s a growing community and a catalyst for change. Anchored in the Mediterranean context yet globally relevant, the initiative aims to:

• Foster intergenerational dialogue in water governance;
• Develop capacity building among young professionals and researchers;
• Encourage innovation and systems thinking in addressing water-related challenges;
• Connect emerging talent with institutions, networks, and decision-makers.

The idea for NEXTGEN4MED was born from the collaboration of three PRIMA projects: OurMED, NATMed, and SALAM-MED united by a shared vision for a more inclusive, resilient, and innovative approach to water governance in the Mediterranean and beyond.