The book "Public Participation in Practice in European Water Framework Directive" offers a comprehensive analysis of the application of public participation within the framework of the European Water Framework Directive (WFD), using the Júcar River Basin as a case study. It examines the extent to which the WFD and its participatory processes have influenced water quality policies and measures. The study highlights the challenges faced by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Júcar (CHJ) as a hydrological and technocratic authority in bringing together new social and environmental movements with traditional stakeholders. It becomes clear that there is a lack of a culture of public participation in Spain, and that participation often remains limited to information and consultation levels. Proposals and comments from civil society and environmental movements are rarely taken into account in political decision-making. Furthermore, it is suggested that some economically and traditionally powerful actors are able to reach agreements with the CHJ regarding the shaping of water policy.