Development and relations with the ACP States: Europe in action for 50 years

Bernard Petit * In addition to being an area of solidarity within its own borders (i.e. regarding regional and social support, cohesion policy), the European Union is leading the way in promoting international solidarity, particularly in the case of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States.

This cooperation policy with the poorest countries of the world was launched 50 years ago at a time when Europe’s founding fathers were adamant about promoting peace and prosperity in the interest of overall stability. Consequently, millions of people have benefited from this development cooperation policy and its schemes to, for example, combat hunger, provide access to water, and build schools and hospitals. All of these initiatives are a reflection of the values that are the essence of the European enterprise: solidarity, respect for human rights and the rule of law.

After 50 years, now is the time to make an assessment, draw lessons and look towards the future.

The assessment is that millions of lives have been saved, people are living in a more dignified way and economies are developing, primarily thanks to Europe. The EU is the world’s leading aid donor and the economic operator offering the widest market access to poor countries. However, this has not been enough to eliminate poverty in the world. Poverty is the scourge of the 21st century.

The lessons are many and have led to relations with the ACP States being recast in the light of the partnership’s key principle. Signed in the year 2000, the Cotonou Agreement is based upon this idea, consolidated by the adoption of the European Consensus on Development which was adopted in 2005. This Consensus meant that a European vision (of Member States and the European Commission) was defined, based on shared values, joint goals and principles, and greatly increased resources.

The keys for development are to be found in an array of policies focused on governance, accountability and the adoption of an effective aid system, sector-specific strategies and trade. The key component of development is good governance and the ACP States can count on firm European Commission support and further aid incentives to encourage them to commit to this approach. Good governance is of fundamental importance; the States need to guarantee each citizen impartial access to courts, administration, health, education and the opportunity to enjoy fundamental freedoms.

The way forward for the development process will be in our ability to take on board all the major problems in the same spirit: globalisation, climate change, energy access, migration management and a knowledge-based society.

The European Commission believes that development is dependent upon a dialogue between partners in a bid to meet all the challenges of a globalised world. If the problems of poor countries are overlooked today, the problems of security, health and the economy will be intensified tomorrow because all regions of the world are now interdependent.

This is Europe’s message for the future: taking joint action with its partners to ensure development in the interest of all.

* Deputy Director General, European Commission, DG DEV

Bernard Petit