EU Development Policy: an agenda for change

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EU Development Policy: an agenda for change

15-05-2012

The EU has released its conclusions on ‘Increasing the Impact of EU Development Policy: an Agenda for Change’, that focus on the necessity for the Union’s Development Policy to adapt to the changing global environment.

“The rapidly changing global environment and the new international aid architecture require a more comprehensive, responsive and effective approach in EU external action and development policy. The Arab Spring is a case in point”, said the conclusions adopted by a Foreign Affairs Council held in Brussels yesterday.

The document reaffirmed that the EU and its Member States “remain firmly committed to the goal of eradicating poverty, as set out in the Lisbon Treaty and the European Consensus on Development”.

The Council conclusions also highlight that EU Development action will focus on human rights and good governance, as well as inclusive and sustainable growth. “The promotion of human rights, democracy, the rule of law and good governance and of inclusive and sustainable growth are two basic pillars of our policy and should receive strengthened support. They are mutually reinforcing.”

Gender and youth are also sectors that the EU seeks to strengthen: “Successful development cooperation also requires significant progress on gender equality, empowerment and opportunities for women, including through political and policy dialogue, gender mainstreaming in policies and programmes, and specific actions. Further, the rights of, and opportunities for, young people and children should be promoted as it is critical for societies to offer a future to the young.”

The conclusions state that “particular emphasis will be on supporting development in Europe’s neighbourhood”.

(EU Neighbourhood Info)

DG EuropeAid website

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