Policy Brief 3: Coherence among planning systems established under three Directives

This policy brief (D3.5) from the CrossGov project examines the coherence of three key EU directives—the Water Framework Directive (WFD), Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), and Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (MSPD)—and their operational implementation at national and local levels. Using four case studies (Finnish Archipelago, North Adriatic Sea, French Mediterranean Sea, Oslofjord), it identifies synergies and conflicts among the planning systems and highlights mechanisms, practices, and lessons for improving policy coherence. Strengthening coherence across these directives supports European Green Deal objectives on zero pollution and marine biodiversity. The brief also offers recommendations for enhancing coordination, stakeholder engagement, and integration across governance levels, providing transferable insights for EU marine and water management.