In Izmail, Efforts Are Underway to Prevent the Liquidation of the Danube Hydrometeorological Observatory

In Izmail, discussions are ongoing regarding the possible liquidation or reorganization of the Danube Hydrometeorological Observatory. The primary trade union organization of the institution addressed an appeal to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, which was supported by the Executive Committee of the Izmail City Council on February 4.

The Observatory represents a critical component of Ukraine’s scientific and institutional presence in the Danube region. It plays a key role in hydrological monitoring, water resource management, environmental safety, and cross-border cooperation.

In 2023–2025, the Observatory became a beneficiary of two projects under Horizon Europe — SUNDANSE and DANSER — strengthening Ukraine’s integration into European research networks and contributing to the fulfillment of international obligations in the Danube basin.

Comment of the Institute of Danube Research 

The Institute of Danube Research emphasizes that, amid growing climate risks, wartime challenges, and intensified navigation on the Lower Danube, the independent functioning of a hydrometeorological institution in Izmail carries strategic importance.

According to IDR, the Observatory performs three interconnected functions:

1. Security-related — monitoring flood risks, water conditions, and hydrological stability in a border region;

2. International — ensuring Ukraine’s participation in EU-funded and Danube-related cooperation frameworks;

3. Institutional — maintaining Ukraine’s scientific presence and subjectivity in the Danube macro-region.

IDR stresses that any administrative decisions regarding the Observatory’s status should take into account its contractual obligations, cross-border monitoring responsibilities, and long-term strategic role for Ukraine in the Danube region.