As a body of 28 member states and with a combined GDP of close to US$20tn, greater than that of the US, the actions of the European Union (EU) have the potential to impact heavily – either negatively or positively – on international development cooperation. Ahead of the EU referendum in the UK, this briefing argues neither for nor against membership of the EU, but presents information about the EU’s current role in development, to help inform considered debate.
Future plans:
European development cooperation is in constant flux. In 2016, there will be a new global strategy, updating the former security strategy. Work will be launched on a new Consensus on Development. There will also be discussions about the future of the partnership with ACP countries. In 2017, there will be a review of the main financial instruments, including the European Development Fund.