In light of the ongoing mid-term evaluation of the NDICI-Global Europe and the mid-term review of its programming, which should be finalised in 2024, CONCORD undertook a study on EU development cooperation funding for CSOs at country and regional level to inform, stimulate and support its discussions with relevant EU institutions and EU Member States. It will also contribute to discussions about CSO funding mechanisms and potential adaptations, especially with regards to the geographic programming.

Its objectives:
· Assess EU funding going to and through CSOs;
· Critically examine how the EU’s political discourse matches NDICI-Global Europe funding decisions, and
· Explore potential adaptations of the support and funding modalities to reach all types of CSOs.

The new partnership agreement between the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPSs) is the framework that will guide relations between the two blocs for the next 20 years. CONCORD welcomes the fact that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and adhering to the Paris Climate Agreement will be among the key objectives of our future partnership. We call for the fight against inequality and leaving no one behind to be the guiding overall aim as our agreement is implemented. In particular, successful implementation of the agreement will require the continuous, meaningful involvement of civil society.

Although mutual partnerships require the interest of all parties to be taken into account, the EU-OACP agreement tilts the balance in favour of EU interests which, for instance, dominate in the economic and migration chapters of the agreement.

This short paper includes CONCORD’s views on the main parts of the agreement: it provides an overview and analysis of the main policy areas, including some cross-cutting themes that CONCORD believes to be essential.

The EU is the world’s largest donor and also a key political actor, with high influence over global policies and international agendas. The EU also recognises civil society, in all its diversity and multiple roles, as a key development actor and, as such, is committed to political and policy dialogue with CSO partners at the regional and country levels. By actively engaging with EU and EU Member States’ representatives, you can contribute to influence the EU’s role and approach in your country, and seek support on the issues you work on.

The EU is currently reviewing its priorities and allocation of resources around the globe for the 2021-2027 period. This information note presents the process to define these priorities, as well as the opportunities for civil society organisations to take part in these discussions.

The aim of this document is to provide practical guidance to civil society organisations participating in the consultation process of the programming of the new EU external single instrument – Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation (NDICI). In this guide, a pyramid of digital needs provides a framework for digital development that can be used from the design stage to understand and address barriers to digital inclusion in partner countries.

This is more relevant than ever as digitalisation is no longer an option – bringing with it contradictory opportunities and risks. If used well, digitalisation has the power to create a fairer and more sustainable world for all. If left unchecked, digitalisation could exacerbate inequalities and threaten universal human rights and fundamental freedoms. From access to news, to medical support, to education, to online government services, the internet has become a necessity. Those who remain in the analog world risk being left behind.

Being able to engage with EU Delegations can be crucial for Civil Society Organisations around the world. Yet, one might easily get lost in the institutional maze. CONCORD’s handbook helps CSOs navigate through this maze and foster effective cooperation with EU Delegations!

Whether you are just starting to work in Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and you need an overview of the European Union’s institutional set-up and the role EU Delegations play for CSOs in your country, or if you would like to deepen your knowledge about political dialogue with the EU, EU policies and funding trends, this handbook includes insightful information for a variety of levels and experiences.

At this practical guide’s core are crucial tips how representatives of Civil Society Organisations can effectively engage with EU Delegations. By the end of this read, you will be stacked up on the knowledge and skills needed to raise your organisation’s profile in the eyes of EU Delegations – and through concrete examples, best practices and lessons learnt be provided with the support and opportunities you need to ensure space for your organisation’s participation.

This handbook will help you make your voice heard and take your vision a step closer to becoming a reality!