Implementing integrated flood risk and land-use management strategies in developed deltaic regions, exemplified by The Netherlands

The article presents a short overview of flood risk management in the Netherlands over the past two centuries. The new Netherlands' policy on river flood management, known as more space for the rivers is outlined. A general problem with flood risk management is that flood risk awareness among the public is low and that risk management is seen as the responsibility of the authorities. At the same time, potential damage due to flooding has greatly increased because of economic development, and the risk of casualties due to flooding far exceeds that due to other known external risks. This is particularly true for deltaic regions in developed countries. The article discusses a number of issues relating to an implementation strategy for the new Netherlands' flood risk management policy, in particular the negotiation processes between water managers and other authorities and stakeholders, the investments involved and aspects of public risk awareness.