On December 2, 2024, the city of Kőszeg hosted the launch of the newly published book, "Insula Magna: Landscape, Water and Sound in Szigetköz". The event, which brought together academics, policymakers, and community leaders, highlighted the significance of sustainable development in the Szigetköz-Csallóköz region. It was organized under the auspices of the Insula Magna – Complex Water Management and Sustainable Development Program, an initiative funded by the European Union and the Hungarian State.
The event began with welcome speeches by Ferenc Miszlivetz (iASK) and Béla Básthy (Mayor of Kőszeg), followed by an opening presentation from Gábor Mayer of KTM, who outlined strategic directions in regional development. Then Sándor Kerekes (iASK) gave a memorial speech about the late János Rechnitzer, commemorating his contributions to regional and environmental studies. The centrepiece of the event was the formal book launch of the book Insula Magna - Landscape, Water and Sound in Szigetköz, introduced by contributors Ferenc Miszlivetz (iASK), Ákos Jakobi (ELTE), and Ferenc Friedler (SZE). Followed by a round-table discussion moderated by János Bogárdi (iASK) featuring a diverse panel of experts. They addressed the project’s integration of technology, governance, and social innovation in achieving sustainable cross-border development. The dialogue emphasized the importance of water as a unifying resource under the program’s motto: “Water connects, not separates.”
The Insula Magna project aims to transform the Szigetköz-Csallóköz region into a European model for sustainable development. By fostering transdisciplinary collaboration among scientific, industrial, and civic stakeholders, the initiative seeks to create long-term solutions addressing water management, regional planning, and ecological preservation. It exemplifies how regional collaboration and holistic planning can address environmental and social challenges while inspiring sustainable development on a broader scale.
Key elements of the program include:
· Sustainability Standards: Projects adhere to dynamic sustainability criteria while encouraging public and private sector dialogue.
· Integrated Development: Solutions span economic organization, governance, and social innovation.
· Cross-Border Cooperation: Collaboration between Hungary and Slovakia strengthens regional cohesion.
· Cultural and Networking Opportunities
The event concluded with a jazz concert by Zsófi Korponay at the historic Synagogue in Kőszeg, followed by a reception at the Festetics Palace. These activities provided opportunities for informal networking and cultural exchange.