“European water remains under pressure from a range of human activities. These pressures often act at the same time and affect the good functioning of ecosystems, contribute to biodiversity loss and threaten the valuable benefits that water brings to society and the economy”. 
In 2019, the Fitness Check of the Water Framework Directive and the Flood Directive deemed the EU Water legislation “broadly fit for purpose” however, the European Commission recognised that various improvements are needed to ensure compliance with environmental legislation and the integration of water objectives in all EU policies. In the light of climate change, the crucial challenge of integrated water protection and its management constitute a vital issue for all. We cannot constantly postpone deadlines. The European Green Deal is presented as a “unique opportunity that should be seized by Member States and stakeholders alike to secure a water-resilient future” for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (access to water and sanitation) interlinked the other 16 SGD’s. Before analysing European water policy (Part 2) and the role of Judges (Part 5), it’s necessary to briefly set the scene for these vital water issues (Part 1).