On 22 and 23 September, partners of the FIER project gathered in Boulogne-sur-Mer and Hesdigneul-Lès-Boulogne, in France, for the latest FIER Partner Meeting, hosted by SYMSAGEB. Against the backdrop of this territory hugely impacted by exceptional floods in 2023 the meeting focused on connecting progress, exchanging lessons, and strengthening cooperation across borders.
From strategies to solutions
Over two days, partners shared their latest results, challenges, and ideas on how to better prepare for, respond to, and recover from flood risks. The discussions reflected the wide scope of the FIER project - from risk communication and data sharing to community engagement and crisis preparedness.
During the sessions, SYMSAGEB’s local partners & members shared their return on experience on 2023 exceptional flood event, which created a valuable bridge between theory and practice for FIER partners.
FIER partners also presented updates on their projects and shared insights on what others could learn or apply within their own contexts. The meeting was an opportunity not only to showcase progress, but also to reflect critically: how can each partner contribute to building a more resilient North Sea Region together?
Exploring practical applications
The partners also visited Place Pauchet, in Hesdigneul-Lès-Boulogne, a location that was severely impacted by the exceptional floods of 2023, where crisis management was tested in real life and recovery remains a long and delicate process, involving both practical and emotional challenges. This visit provided a valuable bridge between theory and practice on flood recovery planning and raised key questions: do we restore, rebuild or renew? In addition to presentations and visits, partners engaged in discussions around the transnational dimension of their work — how lessons learned in Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands or Germany can directly benefit local resilience efforts in France, and vice versa.
Building connections across borders
The meeting once again underlined the strength of the FIER partnership: open exchange, shared learning, and mutual support. From coastal management to behavioural change and crisis simulations, each partner brings a unique perspective and together, they form a network that reaches far beyond national borders.
With renewed energy and shared commitment, the partners continue to move forward, developing routines, tools, and strategies that will help communities across the North Sea Region be better prepared for future floods.