Development co-operation is an important aspect of the economic relations between the EU and developing countries. Both the European Union and the EU member states provide aid and assistance to developing countries.

The African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries, a group that consists of former colonies of the EU member states, received a larger amount of EU development aid than any other region. This group includes 70 of the poorest countries in the world. Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean region have also received a large share of the EU’s development budget. The amount of money to these latter two regions has increased over the last decade, reflecting the EU’s concerns for the strategic implications from problems confronting its neighbouring countries.

The EU member states all have their own development co-operation policy that vary in scope and objectives. The EU development co-operation policy serves as a complement to development co-operation of the individual member states and co-ordinates the efforts between member states.

This section provides information on the contents and motivation of development co-operation of the EU and its member states. Special attention is given to the Lomé convention and the Cotonou agreement. Furthermore, it compares the motivations, objectives, relevance and impact of development co-operation policy in the EU and its member states with those of intergovernmental organisations such as the United Nations and the World Bank.

This section is organised as follows:

• Research: academic papers, research literature, analysis and comment on development co-operation and its effects.

• Policy: position papers, analysis and comment on development co-operation between the EU and LDCs.

• News: recent developments in research, policy and projects relating to development co-operation.

• Regions: per region news relating to development co-operation.

As a recently launched site, we still have some way to go towards providing a comprehensive information resource. You can help by submitting your own contributions (academic papers, position papers, analysis or comments etc.). To do this, go to Contact us.