kom (2019) 0604 (forslag) - COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT Accompanying the document REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL 2019 Annual Report On the implementation of the European Union’s instruments for financing external actions in 2018

Europaudvalget 2019
KOM (2019) 0604
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EUROPEAN

COMMISSION

Brussels, 26.11.2019

SWD(2019) 409 final

PART 1/2

COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT

Accompanying the document

REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND

THE COUNCIL

2019 Annual Report

On the implementation of the European Union’s instruments for financing external

actions in 2018

{COM(2019) 604 final}

kom (2019) 0604 (forslag) - COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT Accompanying the document REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL 2019 Annual Report On the implementation of the European Union’s instruments for financing external actions in 2018

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Table of contents

Introduction: The European Union response to world developments in 2018 ................................................................ 4

1. Delivering on global commitments .............................................................................................................................. 8

1.1.

1.1.1.

1.1.2.

1.1.3.

1.1.4.

1.1.5.

1.1.6.

1.1.7.

1.1.8.

1.2.

1.2.1.

1.2.2.

1.2.3.

1.2.4.

1.2.5.

1.3.

1.3.1.

1.3.2.

1.3.3.

1.3.4.

1.3.5.

1.3.6.

1.3.7.

1.3.8.

1.3.9.

1.3.10.

1.3.11.

1.3.12.

1.3.13.

1.3.14.

1.3.15.

The EU as a strong global actor ...................................................................................................................... 8

International cooperation and development ....................................................................................... 9

European Neighbourhood Policy ........................................................................................................ 10

Humanitarian aid and civil protection ................................................................................................ 11

EU enlargement .................................................................................................................................. 13

Security and defence .......................................................................................................................... 14

Crisis response and preparedness ...................................................................................................... 15

Making a difference: New instruments and aid modalities ................................................................ 16

Human rights and democracy ............................................................................................................. 17

Fostering sustainable development ............................................................................................................. 18

Implementing the 2030 Agenda comprehensively and coherently .................................................... 18

The means of implementation of the new agenda ............................................................................. 19

Working better together with Member States ................................................................................... 20

Policy Coherence for Development .................................................................................................... 21

Development effectiveness ................................................................................................................ 22

Working together towards the SDGs

–

policy level ..................................................................................... 22

SDG 1 No poverty................................................................................................................................ 22

SDG 2 Zero hunger .............................................................................................................................. 25

SDG 3 Good health and well-being ..................................................................................................... 28

SDG 4 Quality education ..................................................................................................................... 31

SDG 5 Gender equality ........................................................................................................................ 35

SDG 6 Clean water and sanitation ...................................................................................................... 39

SDG 7 Affordable and clean energy .................................................................................................... 40

SDG 8 Decent work and economic growth ......................................................................................... 44

SDG 9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure ................................................................................... 48

SDG 10 Reduced inequalities .............................................................................................................. 52

SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities ....................................................................................... 55

SDG 12 Responsible consumption and production............................................................................. 57

SDG 13 Climate action ........................................................................................................................ 60

SDG 14 Life below water ..................................................................................................................... 63

SDG 15 Life on land ............................................................................................................................. 66

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.3.16.

1.3.17.

SDG 16 Peace, justice and strong institutions .................................................................................... 69

SDG 17 Partnerships for the goals ...................................................................................................... 74

2. Results reporting and alignment to SDGs ................................................................................................................... 78

2.1.

The EU International Cooperation and Development Results Framework and the Instrument for Pre-

accession Assistance (IPA II) Performance Framework ............................................................................................. 78

2.1.1.

2.2.

2.3.

2.4.

2.4.1.

2.4.2.

2.4.3.

2.4.4.

2.4.5.

2.4.6.

2.4.7.

2.4.8.

2.4.9.

2.4.10.

2.4.11.

2.4.12.

2.4.13.

2.4.14.

2.4.15.

2.4.16.

2.4.17.

2.5.

2.5.1.

2.5.2.

2.5.3.

2.5.4.

Revision of the EU Results Framework and results reporting exercise............................................... 78

Results-based management......................................................................................................................... 79

Overview of results for EU RF Level 2 .......................................................................................................... 80

Results reported under the EU RF per SDG.................................................................................................. 85

SDG 1 No poverty................................................................................................................................ 86

SDG 2 Zero hunger .............................................................................................................................. 86

SDG 3 Good health and well-being ..................................................................................................... 90

SDG 4 Quality education ..................................................................................................................... 92

SDG 5 Gender equality ........................................................................................................................ 94

SDG 6 Clean water and sanitation ...................................................................................................... 97

SDG 7 Affordable and clean energy .................................................................................................... 99

SDG 8 Decent work and economic growth ....................................................................................... 100

SDG 9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure ................................................................................. 107

SDG 10 Reduced inequalities ............................................................................................................ 108

SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities ..................................................................................... 112

SDG 12 Responsible consumption and production........................................................................... 113

SDG 13 Climate action ...................................................................................................................... 114

SDG 14 Life below water ................................................................................................................... 115

SDG 15 Life on land ........................................................................................................................... 116

SDG 16 Peace, justice and strong institutions .................................................................................. 118

SDG 17 Partnerships for the goals .................................................................................................... 124

The Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II) Performance Framework ........................................ 125

Reporting from ongoing interventions ............................................................................................. 125

Coverage and structure of the IPA II PF ............................................................................................ 125

Results-based management ............................................................................................................. 126

Overview of key results reported for the IPA II PF............................................................................ 126

3. Implementation: Geographical overview ................................................................................................................. 128

3.1.

3.1.1.

3.1.2.

3.2.

3.2.1.

African continent, sub-Saharan Africa and all ACP programmes ............................................................... 128

Sub-Saharan Africa............................................................................................................................ 128

South Africa ...................................................................................................................................... 136

Latin America and the Caribbean ............................................................................................................... 137

Latin America .................................................................................................................................... 137

3.2.1.4. Implementation

......................................................................................................................................... 140

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

3.2.2.

3.3.

3.3.1.

3.3.2.

3.3.3.

3.3.4.

3.4.

3.4.1.

3.4.2.

3.4.3.

The Caribbean ................................................................................................................................... 144

Asia, Central Asia, Middle East/Gulf and Pacific ........................................................................................ 150

Asia ................................................................................................................................................... 150

Central Asia ....................................................................................................................................... 155

Middle East/Gulf region .................................................................................................................... 159

The Pacific ......................................................................................................................................... 163

Enlargement............................................................................................................................................... 166

Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 166

IPA priorities ..................................................................................................................................... 167

Implementation ................................................................................................................................ 168

3.4.4.

Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people affected by

conflicts and disasters ......................................................................................................................................... 178

3.4.5.

3.4.6.

3.4.7.

3.5.

3.5.1.

3.5.2.

3.6.

3.6.1.

3.6.2.

Crisis response and preparedness .................................................................................................... 179

Working better together, contributor effectiveness and donor coordination ................................. 180

Working towards the SDGs ............................................................................................................... 182

European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) .............................................................................................. 183

European Neighbourhood East ......................................................................................................... 183

European Neighbourhood South ...................................................................................................... 196

The OCTs .................................................................................................................................................... 207

Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 207

Implementation ................................................................................................................................ 208

4. Managing aid ............................................................................................................................................................ 212

4.1.

4.1.1.

4.1.2.

4.1.3.

4.2.

4.2.1.

4.2.2.

4.3.

4.3.1.

4.4.

4.4.1.

4.4.2.

4.4.3.

Monitoring systems ................................................................................................................................... 212

New reporting system on SDGs ........................................................................................................ 212

Evaluation: Review of the work programme .................................................................................... 212

Lessons learned ................................................................................................................................ 217

Aid delivery modalities............................................................................................................................... 219

Budget support, PFM ........................................................................................................................ 219

Using EU grants strategically via blending, including the European EIP ........................................... 221

Improving ways of working ........................................................................................................................ 224

Simplification of procedures ............................................................................................................. 224

Communication, transparency and learning .............................................................................................. 225

Communication ................................................................................................................................ 225

Transparency .................................................................................................................................... 226

Learning ............................................................................................................................................ 226

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Introduction: The European Union response to world developments in 2018

During 2018, the European Union (EU) faced

–

and rose to

–

significant challenges on the

international scene. Confli

ts a d i sta ilit o ti ued to de elop glo all a d at the EU s southe

and eastern borders. State fragility and security concerns were evident from the Sahel to the Horn of

Africa. Conflicts continued in Syria, Ukraine and Yemen. There was limited progress in the Middle

East peace process (MEPP). Regional rivalries sharpened, and the major powers competed to extend

their global economic and strategic influence. Unilateral action and the weakening of the rules-

based global order challenged multilateralism and the international system.

In its engagement in world affairs, the EU continued to promote a joined-up approach whereby the

EU institutions and Member States use all available instruments to strive for a more peaceful and

p ospe ous o ld. The EU s

external action is framed by the Global Strategy on Foreign and Security

Policy and grounded in the Lisbon Treaty. It calls on Member States to act collectively to overcome

halle ges. I

, the EU s o p ehe si e espo se spa ed diplo a , se u it ,

financial

relations, trade, development, humanitarian aid and further development of special relations with

its closest neighbours. The EU also supported urgent reforms to enable the multilateral system to

face present and future challenges and to boost cooperation and partnerships with regional

organisations.

In the

Western Balkans,

the Eu opea Co

issio s Weste Balka s St ateg of Fe ua

p o ided a ajo oost fo the egio s Eu opea path. It e o fi ed the futu e of the Weste

Balkans as

a i teg al pa t of the EU a d alled fo sig ifi a t e ha e e t of the EU s politi al,

technical and financial support to the region. At the EU–Western Balkans Summit in Sofia in May

2018, EU leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal support for the European perspective of the Western

Balkans, and the Western Balkans partners recommitted to this perspective as their firm, strategic

choice. The EU leaders agreed on new measures for enhanced cooperation with the region. The

historic Prespa Agreement between Greece and the Republic of North Macedonia provided an

example of strengthening good neighbourly relations for the entire region. Turkey continued to

move away from the EU, with a continued deterioration in particular in the rule of law field and a

substantial reduction in EU funding due to backsliding by Turkey in key areas. Cooperation continued

in areas of joint interest, in particular on migration.

Under the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), the EU continued to support and foster stability,

security and

p ospe it i the EU s losest Neigh ou hood a d to de elop st o g pa t e ships ith

neighbouring countries to the east and south based on joint ownership, focusing on issues of key

concern to the EU.

An ambitious work plan

– the

Deli e a les fo

–

was endorsed by the leaders in the context

of the Easte Pa t e ship Su

it i No e e

. The o ito i g of the

Deli e a les fo

sta ted i

a d as

discussed at the Eastern Partnership (

)

fo eig

i iste s eeti g o

15 October. The EU also continued to help secure a lasting peaceful solution that respects the unity,

sovereignty and territorial integrity of

Ukraine

and promoted further mediation efforts. It also

agreed to increase cooperation with Ukraine on cybersecurity, hybrid threats and strategic

u i atio i p epa atio fo ele tio s i

. The EU s espo se to the halle gi g situatio

with Russia continued to respect the five agreed principles. They involve collaborating with Russia on

Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

foreign policy and global issues of interest to the EU, such as the Arctic, Iran, Syria and migration,

while supporting civil society and promoting dialogue.

In the

Middle East and North Africa,

the EU continued to support the ENP goal of stabilisation and

promoted regional integration in the strategically important Mediterranean region. Although the

situation in

Syria

continued to present challenges, the EU pursued a political solution to bring lasting

stability and to address the most critical humanitarian and resilience issues affecting Syrians and

communities hosting Syrian refugees. The Syria Conference in April 2018 reaffirmed the

i te atio al o

u it s politi al a d fi a ial suppo t to the ou t s eigh ou s a d esulted i

pledges of EUR 3.5 billion in grants. The EU supported the stabilisation of

Iraq, Libya

and

Yemen

cooperation with the United Nations (UN) and regional partners. The two-state solution and its

existing policies, including on Jerusalem, remained central to EU engagement in the

MEPP,

working

with Israelis, Palestinians and the international community.

Implementing and preserving the

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)

with

Iran

remained

an important priority. EU Member States showed an ongoing intention to implement the JCPOA as

long as Iran abides by its nuclear commitments. The deal continued to ensure that Iran does not

acquire material or equipment to develop nuclear weapons, as confirmed repeatedly by the

International Atomic Energy Agency, thereby demonstrating its importance to the security of

Europe, the Middle East and the wider world.

The EU and

Africa

o ked to olste the st ategi pa t e ship et ee the t i o ti e ts a d

strove to implement the outcomes of the African Union (AU)–EU Summit (29–30 November 2017).

This strengthened alliance between the two continents is based on mutual interests and shared

values and encompasses peace and security; governance; mobility and migration; investment and

eatio ; a d k o ledge a d skills. The EU suppo ts the AU s Age da

a d the i teg atio of

the continent through the African Continental Free Trade Area. Negotiations to secure a renewed

partnership with African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states continued in preparation for the expiry

of the Cotonou Agreement in February 2020. The EU provided bilateral and regional support to

promote stability in the

Sahel

as a key priority. This involved political, security, development and

humanitarian investment amounting to EUR 8 billion. The EU and the Niger presidency also

organised a conference of G5 Sahel countries (Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger) in

February 2018. This was a milestone towards operationalising the G5 Sahel Joint Force, which

addresses challenges including terrorism and organised crime, climate change and demographic

growth.

The

transatlantic relationship

remained central to EU foreign policy. The EU made good progress

with the

United States

through a strong and effective relationship focusing on foreign relations with

the EU s i

ediate Neigh ou hood, No th Ko ea a d the Weste Balka s. The EU also stepped up

cooperation with the United States over foreign policy issues such as cybersecurity,

counterterrorism and defence, and pursued constructive dialogue to resolve differences and to

defe d the EU s alues, politi al o je ti es a d e o o i i te ests. It o ked ith

Canada

strengthening multilateralism and on implementing the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) and

the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.

In relation to partnership between the EU and

Latin America and the Caribbean,

the ministerial

meeting in July 2018 was successful; work continued to shape the future of the partnership, in order

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

to transition from development cooperation to a diversified model that emphasises trade,

investment, research and innovation, education, the digital agenda and collaboration in defence of

common values. In addition, the EU continued to support the implementation of the

peace

agreement in Colombia,

a key element for the stability of the region, while closely following events

Venezuela.

The EU worked hard to modernise Association Agreements with

Chile and Mexico

and

to conclude the Association Agreement with

Mercosur.

Overall, the EU sought to facilitate political

processes in order to re-establish respect for democracy, the rule of law and human rights and to

assist the countries of the region in tackling the humanitarian consequences of migration.

At the Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) in October 2018, leaders agreed to improve

connections

between the continents

to boost trade, improve security, increase dialogue and preserve the

environment. They renewed their support for the rules-based international order and an open world

economy. The EU showed its commitment to an active EU security presence and engagement with

Asia

at bilateral, regional and global levels, while pursuing

sustainable connectivity

between both

regions. The EU remained committed to the ongoing diplomatic process and efforts to bring about

the denuclearisation of

North Korea,

both in talks with partners and through sanctions. The EU and

UN have vast expertise in this field, which could be used to achieve lasting peace and security on the

Korean Peninsula. The EU also continued to exercise a mix of international efforts and constructive

engagement with

Myanmar

in order to improve the situation there while providing extensive

humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees. The EU supported an inclusive and united platform

for peace in

Afghanistan,

involving all social groups and protecting 18 years of progress on

fundamental rights for women, children and minorities.

The EU played a leading role in the

implementation of global agreements,

notably the

2030 Agenda

for Sustainable Development,

the

Paris Agreement on climate change

and the negotiations for the

Global Compacts on Migration and on Refugees.

Throughout 2018 (the 70th anniversary of the

Universal Declaration for Human Rights, the 20th anniversary of the Rome Statute and the 20th

anniversary of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders), the EU confirmed its commitment to

promoting the

protection of human rights.

The EU increased its efforts on

cybersecurity with the

Global Tech Panel

and led determined global efforts to promote

international ocean governance,

and negotiations for the

Global Pact for the Environment.

In addition, the EU made important headway in implementing

the Integrated Approach to Conflict

and Crises.

Following the adoption of the

Joint Communication on Resilience

in 2017, work

continued on a coherent policy framework with the focus being on the Neighbourhood. The EU

continued to promote external policies and cooperation that enhance the security of the EU and its

citizens, focusing on internal and external security. The EU stepped up its engagement with partners

in areas such as counterterrorism, non-proliferation and disarmament, cybersecurity, maritime

security and sanctions.

With regard to trafficking in human beings, the EU delivered towards its 2017 Communication,

identifying as a targeted priority

the intensification of a coordinated and consolidated response,

both within and outside the EU

(

). In this context, the EU Anti-trafficking Coordinator promoted a

coherent and coordinated approach to the complex phenomenon of trafficking in human beings,

COM(2017) 728 final, 04.12.17.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

both within the

EU and in relation to non-EU countries,

addressing the issue in key relevant

instruments (

The Glo al St ateg o the EU s Fo eig a d Se u it Poli a ti ipated the i po ta e of a st o g

UN as the bedrock of the multilateral rules-

ased o de a d affi ed the EU s o

it e t to it. The

EU and its Member States remained the largest contributor to the UN. The EU provided more than

one quarter of all voluntary contributions, while Member States contributed to one third of the UN

regular budget and more than one third of the peacekeeping budget. In 2018, the strategic

partnership of the EU and the UN on peacekeeping operations and crisis management resulted in a

e a tio pla fo the e t th ee ea s. All of the EU s

16 crisis management missions and

operations cooperated closely with members of the UN family. EU missions and operations

continued to share the same theatres as UN missions, including several in Africa. The EU played a

key role in UN reform, both by helping the UN Secretary-General Guterres to secure an ambitious

package across the three reform strands (management; peace and security; development system)

and by implementing measures due to enter into force on 1 January 2019.

For more details, please see: SWD(2018) 473 final, 03.12.2018; COM(2018) 777 final, 03.12.2018; the European Commission`s anti-

trafficking website:

https://ec.europa.eu/anti-trafficking/node/4598_en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1. Delivering on global commitments

1.1.

The EU as a strong global actor

The EU strongly promotes a joined-up approach that brings together EU institutions and Member

States to work towards a more peaceful and prosperous world.

The Lis o T eat guides the EU s e te al a tio s hile the Glo al St ateg o the EU s Fo eig a d

Security Policy enables the EU to act collectively and responsibly to tackle complex global challenges.

While continuing to implement the five original priorities of the Global Strategy (

), support for a

global order based on international law with the UN at its core, in partnership with regional

organisations, is increasing. Advancing

multilateralism

means adjusting to the changing realities and

distribution of power in the world while ensuring visibility and strong implementation of key

milestones for the multilateral system, such as the Paris Agreement, the Sustainable Development

Goals (SDGs), the Iran nuclear deal or the UN Global Compact for Migration. It also means

redoubling efforts to work with others who remain committed to the existing international system.

The groundbreaking trilateral

AU–EU–UN

partnership paves the way for enhanced cooperation on

the wider peace and security agenda, while support for the

G5 Sahel Joint Force

is an example of the

importance of investing in regional security partnerships.

In 2018, the EU assisted with the

comprehensive approach to conflicts and crises

through timely

interventions under the Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace (IcSP) and through Common

Foreign and Security Policy actions across the world, including in Bangladesh, Central African

Republic, Iraq, Libya, Mali, Myanmar, the Philippines, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela and the Western

Balkans. Through these actions, the EU contributed to mediation, dialogue and confidence building,

conflict prevention and post-conflict peacebuilding; to strengthening the rule of law, the fight

against terrorism, and security sector reform; and to efforts to combat the proliferation of weapons

and promote effective global governance and multilateralism. During the year, the first Capacity

Building for Security and Development (CBSD) initiatives were launched under the IcSP (

). These

actions, which were closely coordinated with the relevant military EU missions on the ground in

Ce t al Af i a Repu li , Mali a d So alia, de o st ate the EU s i teg ated app oa h.

The EU is taking greater responsibility for its defence and assisting partners with peace and security.

Advancements on a

Coordinated Annual Review on Defence,

the

Military Planning and Conduct

Capability,

the European Defence Industrial Development Programme, the

EU–NATO Joint

Declaration

and the

Permanent Structured Cooperation

(PESCO) are concrete and historic

achievements. Intense work continues on the

European Defence Fund

and the proposal for a

European Peace Facility

to finance peacekeeping operations. Also, under the

Common Security and

Defence Policy

(CSDP), the EU operates civilian and military missions worldwide.

In addition to its work on conflict, the EU continues to tackle existing vulnerabilities and respond to

humanitarian crises

–

natural and man-made

–

amplified by climate change, insecurity and modest

economic growth. The EU and its Member States re

ai the o ld s la gest do o s of hu a ita ia

The five original priorities are security and defence; resilience; an integrated approach; an internal/external nexus; and regional and

thematic strategies.

Five new CBSD financing decisions were adopted under the crisis response component: in Central African Republic (two), Lebanon, Mali

and Somalia. The first CBSD actions under the crisis preparedness component took place in Benin, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Lebanon and

Niger.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

aid and of development assistance, providing more than half of

Official Development Assistance

(ODA) globally, making a huge difference to the livelihoods of millions of people around the world.

The EU also fosters dialogue on

values and global challenges

with key partners across the world.

Human rights, gender equality and support for women, peace and security are central to all EU

policies. The EU seeks to broaden conversations, defend and promote European values, build new

cross-regional alliances and project influence, contributing to the security of the EU and its citizens.

The EU upgraded dialogue (e.g. with Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, Turkey and Western Balkans)

on non-proliferation and disarmament, cybersecurity, maritime security and sanctions, focusing on

the internal/external security nexus in counterterrorism.

Finally,

trade

is, fo so e, e o i g a politi al eapo . As the o ld s la gest t adi g lo a d the

biggest source of foreign direct investment, the EU continues to work with international partners to

promote a free and fair international trading system. The EU is deeply engaged in the reform of the

World Trade Organization (WTO) and will continue to defend itself against unfair and distorting

trade practices while expanding its bilateral and regional partnerships. New technologies are

revolutionising how we live, how we work and how we conduct diplomacy, development and

security. This was the rationale for the EU proposal to create the Global Tech Panel. Technology is

creating new challenges not covered by international laws and standards, and the EU will contribute

decisively to shaping those laws and standards using the strength of the single market to ensure

predictability, social inclusion and prosperity.

1.1.1. International cooperation and development

In 2018, the Commission continued to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda globally,

advancing the application of the new European Consensus on Development (2017) (

), which

provides a framework for a common approach to development policy. Thus, the Commission actively

integrated SDGs across its methods, instruments and tools.

The Commission continued to develop tailored partnerships for effective development cooperation.

For example, in September 2018, the EU and countries in the ACP group started to plan for their

cooperation after 2020, aiming to conclude the agreement by the end of 2019.

A key policy initiative was the Africa–Europe Alliance for Sustainable Investment and Jobs,

announced by President Juncker in September 2018. Since the adoption of the Consensus, the EU

has been actively implementing the Addis Ababa Action Agenda as an integral part of the 2030

Agenda. This involves promoting the mobilisation and use of financial and non-financial means and

all forms of partnerships to achieve the SDGs. ODA, which still plays a significant role in many

developing countries, will be used more catalytically to generate additional financing for sustainable

development. This approach will be part of the future Neighbourhood, Development and

International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), which sets out to support the implementation of the

SDGs.

The EU and its Member States are firmly committed to the SDGs and to eradicating poverty. In 2018,

EU ODA was 0.47 % of gross national income (GNI)

–

EUR 74.4 billion

–

down compared to 2017,

when it was at 0.50 % of GNI. This reduction was due to a significant decrease in donor refugee

https://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/new-european-consensus-development-our-world-our-dignity-our-future_en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

spending, which assists refugees and asylum seekers during the first year of their stay, covering

food, shelter or training (

In 2018, the Commission continued to address economic, social and environmental dimensions of

sustainable development. For instance, the European External Investment Plan (EIP) promoted

sustainable development in Africa and the European Neighbourhood through enhanced investment,

boosting local economies and creating decent jobs while addressing the root causes of irregular

migration and forced displacement. In 2018, the EU allocated EUR 1.54 billion to 28 guarantees to

unlock investments for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in energy and

connectivity, cities, agriculture and the digital sector. Also,

21 blending projects in sub-Saharan

Africa

are expected to leverage around EUR 4 billion for transport, energy, private sector

development (PSD) and agriculture.

Several programmes were launched under the Spotlight Initiative, the EU–UN partnership to

eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls. Support is provided to strengthen local

organisations working to end gender-based violence. Moreover, a total of EUR 265 million has been

committed to combat sexual and gender-based violence in Africa and Latin America.

The EU has also sought to enhance research and innovation collaboration, which is a key vehicle for

foste i g so ioe o o i de elop e t a d suppo ti g the EU s e te al poli ies. I

, ajo

developing partner regions participated on approximately 225 occasions (

) in Horizon 2020

collaborative projects, supported by an EU contribution of about EUR 33 million.

1.1.2. European Neighbourhood Policy

In 2018, the EU continued to implement its revised ENP, aiming to

sta ilise the EU s Neigh ou hood

(the overarching goal of the 2015 review). Throughout the year, the revised ENP mobilised

significant support for its four refocused priorities (

) and fully integrated the principles of

differentiation and shared ownership. Engagement with all Neighbourhood countries through

political dialogue continued, and additional guidance and support was provided to ENP partner

countries with their reform efforts.

I the east, the EU s assista e a d ajo p og a

es e e ased o the

Deli e a les fo

adopted at the Brussels Summit in November 2017. A new institutional set-up of the Eastern

Partnership has also been put in place. Work on the differentiated relations with all Eastern Partner

countries has advanced well. The political framework set by the Association Agreements with

Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine and the association agendas have continued to be implemented. The

realignment of multilateral and bilateral actions is ongoing, and the multi-annual Programming

Documents for 2017–2020 for Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine (for the period 2018–2020) and

the regional east provided the basis for annual programming. The Single Support Framework for

Aze aija

as adopted i De e e

, hile a pa kage of spe ial easu es as adopted fo

Belarus, with negotiations on Partnership Priorities.

Preliminary figures for 2018 indicate a slight decrease in overall collective ODA. Taking into account the Organisation for Economic Co-

ope atio a d De elop e t s OECD e e t ha ge to the ethod of al ulati g ODA, the adjusted diffe e e et ee

a d

018

represents a decrease of EUR 731 million.

Figures cover Africa, Central and Latin America and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The ENP s p io it a eas a e:

good governance, democracy, human rights and the rule of law; sustainable economic development;

security; and migration and mobility.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

In response to the conflict in the east of Ukraine, the EU provided humanitarian support and

assistance for stabilisation and early recovery. The EU also adopted a significant package to support

development and strengthen social and economic resilience in government-controlled areas.

In the south, the EU and Tunisia agreed on strategic priorities for 2018–2020. A Single Support

Framework (2018–2020) for Algeria was adopted. The EU–Morocco Action Plan implementing the

advanced status and the Single Support Framework were extended for one year. The EU–Jordan

Association Council agreed on a two-year extension of the Partnership Priorities. The first drafts of

the Partnership Priorities with Palestine and Israel were prepared for discussion with Member States

in early 2019 and action plans were extended for three years. The EU also presented a review of its

engagement in favour of the two-state solution to Member States at the Gymnich meeting in August

2018, to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of its support. Its conclusions are being integrated

into the programming.

Substantial efforts were devoted to enhancing coordination mechanisms in the Neighbourhood

South and ensuring coordination of the EU response at all levels, including via Joint Humanitarian

and Development Frameworks for Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, and permanent discussion and

coordination between the different instruments, including humanitarian and crisis response.

Mitigating the impact of the protracted Syrian crisis remained a priority throughout 2018. The April

Brussels II Conference on Supporting the future of Syria and the region reaffirmed the engagement

of the EU in supporting Syrian refugees and host communities

–

notably in Jordan, Lebanon and

Turkey

–

through the activities of the EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian crisis.

Meanwhile, in Libya, the security situation remained a barrier to the implementation of cooperation

programmes. Operations continued to be remotely managed from Tunis, where the delegation is

temporarily based.

The EU continued to drive forward programmes to assist Neighbourhood countries to tackle the

causes of instability through a sustained focus on good governance, the rule of law and human

rights, both in the east and the south. Significant efforts at bilateral and regional levels continued to

increase the capacity of civil society across the region in terms of policy shaping to support human

rights defenders and freedom, as well as the accountability of states to their citizens.

Migration and related security challenges also continued to receive EU attention and support. The

EU continued to apply a balanced approach to the multiple aspects of migration, with a focus on

areas of mutual interest. For example, the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa contributes to

addressing the causes of irregular migration and forced displacement, the fight against trafficking of

human beings and smuggling of migrants, and the protection, voluntary return and reintegration of

migrants to their countries of origin.

Peer-to-peer instruments, the Technical Assistance and Information Exchange (TAIEX) model and

Twinning also actively contributed to support the overall reform process in line with EU political

priorities.

1.1.3. Humanitarian aid and civil protection

Humanitarian crises have steadily increased in complexity and severity in recent decades; this trend

did not change in 2018. Conflict remained the main driver of humanitarian needs, while natural

disasters necessitated emergency aid. Overall, more than 134 million people needed humanitarian

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

assistance and protection

–

and more funding than ever before was required to help them. The

Commission funded humanitarian aid operations for more than EUR 1.5 billion (

) in more than 90

countries (Figure 1). A significant proportion of this went on supporting conflict-affected populations

inside Syria and refugees in neighbouring countries and regions. The EU has also continued to be a

leading donor in other parts of the world, with Africa continuing to account for a large share of

funding.

Figure 1. EU humanitarian aid in 2018

However,

ai tai i g the EU s apa it to espo d apidl e ai s a halle ge due to diffi ult

access and security situations in several countries. Promoting principled humanitarian aid and

respect for international

hu a ita ia la has o ti ued to e at the hea t of the Co

issio s

overarching objectives as a donor. In 2018, the EU continued to play a leading role by chairing the

two EU donor groups: the Donor Support Group of the International Committee of the Red Cross

a d the Good Hu a ita ia Do o ship g oup. The Co

issio also o ti ued to hai the Call to

action on protection from gender-

ased iole e i e e ge ies , to e ha ded o e to Ca ada i

January 2019.

In line with the Grand Bargain agreed in 2016 between donors and operational agencies at the

World Humanitarian Summit, the Commission has also worked for the greatest possible efficiency

and value for money in the use of humanitarian funding. A key part of this has been the Guidance

Note on the Delivery of Large-Scale Cash Transfers. In addition, support for innovation and

digitalisatio has o ti ued to e a ajo fo us of the EU s d i e to a i ise the i pa t of

humanitarian aid.

The Commission has also pursued work on resilience as crisis and fragility become normalised in

many parts of the world. The peace element of the Humanitarian–Development Nexus was

endorsed during the informal Foreign Affairs Council for Development meeting in September 2018,

This included emergency support in the EU (EUR 199 million).

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

with the understanding that efforts should contribute to addressing a protracted crisis, though not

to the detriment of principled humanitarian assistance programmes. Education in emergencies

remains a flagship policy for the EU: in 2018, the Commission adopted a Communication on

Education in Emergencies and Protracted Crises, setting clear and strategic priorities. Having met

Commissioner

St lia ides pledge to de ote % of the EU s

hu a ita ia aid udget to

education in emergencies, the EU has set the ambitious goal of 10 % in 2019.

The EU Civil Protection Mechanism (rescEU) was activated 20 times. Within the EU, assistance was

provided for forest fires in Greece, Latvia, Portugal and Sweden. Following oil leaks, Bulgaria and

France requested EU support on the issue of marine pollution. International assistance was provided

to Guatemala (volcanic eruption), the Democratic Republic of Congo (Ebola outbreak) and Indonesia

(earthquake and tsunami). The unprecedented 2018 forest fire season demonstrated the need to

continue strengthening the EU, which prioritised concluding negotiations on the Commission

proposal. Political agreement was reached at the end of 2018, paving the way for its rapid

implementation, which is a top priority for the EU in 2019.

The EU will also step up support for Member States to improve their disaster risk management and

will set up a new EU Civil Protection Knowledge Network to share lessons learned. Cooperation on

training, research and innovation will be, where possible, extended to neighbouring countries.

This new legal framework also enables an overall increase in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism

financial envelope of EUR 205 million for the remaining Multiannual Financial Framework period

(2019–2020), which will partly be used to finance prevention and preparedness projects, training,

exercises, peer reviews, advisory missions and exchange of experts in Neighbourhood and

enlargement countries.

1.1.4. EU enlargement

The Commission continued to support enlargement countries to improve their readiness to join the

EU. For

e a ple, o

Fe ua

, the Co

issio adopted the St ateg fo A edi le

e la ge e t pe spe ti e fo a d e ha ed EU e gage e t ith the Weste Balka s

(

). This

provided a major boost to the enlargement agenda and confirmed the firm merit-based prospect of

EU membership for all countries in the region. At the same time, it stressed the urgent need to make

progress on the rule of law, economy, reconciliation and good neighbourly relations. It also put

forward concrete measures to increase EU engagement with the region.

The EU–Western Balkans Summit in Sofia on 17 May 2018 brought together the heads of state or

government from EU Member States and leaders from the six Western Balkans partners. It focused

on improving connectivity and security in the region. EU leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal

support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans, and the Western Balkan partners

recommitted themselves to this perspective as their

firm strategic choice.

The EU leaders agreed on

the Sofia Declaration and the Sofia Priority Agenda (

), outlining new measures for enhanced

cooperation with the region.

The annual enlargement package, consisting of a Commission Communication on the

implementation of EU enlargement policy and seven country reports, was adopted on 17 April 2018.

COM(2018) 65 final, 06.02.2018.

https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/34776/sofia-declaration_en.pdf.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

In view of the progress made by the Republic of Albania and the Republic of North Macedonia, the

Commission recommended opening accession negotiations with the two countries. On 26 June

2018, the Council responded positively to this progress and set out the path towards opening

accession negotiations with the two countries in June 2019, provided further progress is made. The

Council will discuss the Commission recommendations in October 2019.

There has been some re-engagement bet

ee the EU a d Tu ke i

, i ludi g a leade s

meeting in March 2018. The EU–Turkey dialogue was maintained on crucial issues of common

interest, including migration, with a key role played by the implementation of the March 2016 EU–

Turkey Statement (

). However, due to the continued deterioration of the rule of law in Turkey, in

Ju e

the Cou il oted that Tu ke s a essio

egotiatio s ha e effe ti el o e to a

standstill, and no further work towards modernising the EU–Turkey customs union is foreseen. The

implementation of the pre-accession assistance to Turkey took place in this challenging context, with

a substantial reduction in funding due to backsliding by Turkey in key areas.

The EU Facility for Refugees in Turkey, established in November 2015, continued to enable a joint

coordination mechanism of existing instruments and to ensure that the needs of refugees and host

communities in Turkey are addressed in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. In 2018, results

under the first tranche of funding, totalling EUR 3 billion, were already visible, with programmes

benefiting over 2 million refugees. In July 2018, the Commission adopted a decision on a second

tranche of EUR 3 billion to be committed in 2018–2019, with EUR 2 billion coming from the EU

udget a d EUR illio f o Me e States o t i utio s. P og a

es u de the se o d t a he

will reflect the protracted nature of the refugee situation and focus on inclusion and self-reliance. At

the end of 2018, EUR 1.4 billion of the second tranche has been committed. This is a remarkable

a hie e e t a d o stitutes ajo p og ess i a hie i g the EU s o je ti es.

1.1.5. Security and defence

, the i ple e tatio of the EU s Glo al St ateg i the a eas of se u it a d defe e fo used

on deepening cooperation through PESCO. This included legal acts as well as the launch of

collaborative PESCO projects.

In June 2018, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-

President of the European Commission (HR/VP), along with the Commission itself, proposed a

European Peace Facility. It would provide the EU with an off-budget fund to finance all Common

Foreign and Security Policy operational actions with military or defence implications, including

partner country military capacity building and support for partner organisation peace operations to

prevent conflict, preserve peace and strengthen international security.

The European Defence Industrial Development Programme was launched, and proposals were made

by the Commission for a European Defence Fund. In November 2018, the mandate and staffing

ceiling of the permanent operational planning and conduct capability for non-executive military

issio s e e ei fo ed. Mo eo e , a i ilia CSDP o pa t as adopted

by the Council, with 22

commitments to develop civilian capabilities, enhance the effectiveness of civilian CSDP missions

and ensure a joined-up approach with other EU instruments.

http://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2016/03/18/eu-turkey-statement/pdf.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU–NATO cooperation on countering hybrid threats focused on 20 out of 74 EU–NATO common

actions. The Helsinki Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats scaled up its support for EU

and NATO staff, and exchanges continued on cyber concepts, training, threat indicators, alerts and

assessments. The EU also contributed to

NATO s Buildi g I teg it p og a

e to help NATO

partners in the EU Neighbourhood prevent corruption in defence- and security-related sectors.

EU–UN information exchanges have intensified.

The ag ee e t o Rei fo i g the UN-EU

Strategic

Partnership on Peace Operations and Crisis Management: Priorities 2019–

has e te ded its

scope from peacekeeping to other aspects of peace operations and crisis management.

The CBSD initiative introduced a previously missing element to the EU toolbox: the possibility in

specific circumstances to support military actors in partner countries to enhance their capacity to

prevent and respond to crises on their own. This contributes to national and regional stability,

sustainable development and peaceful societies. In 2018, CBSD actions were approved in Central

African Republic, Lebanon, Mali and Somalia, in particular to train and support military actors to

contribute to the restoration of state authority and enhance the state capacity to deliver basic

services in insecure areas. An operational risk assessment/management methodology was also

developed to identify and mitigate the risk of unintended negative consequences of such EU

support.

The 2018–2020 Multiannual Indicative Programme was approved for IcSP Article 4 (to support

conflict prevention, peacebuilding and crisis preparedness capacities globally) and Article 5 (to assist

in addressing global, trans-regional and emerging threats). Thus, several projects were launched to

strengthen the resilience of communities and governments against violent extremism and terrorist

attacks, including actions on anti-money laundering and counterterrorist financing. Interregional

oope atio a d ou t ies apa ilities to p e e t a d a age i ide ts i ol i g he i al,

biological, radiological and nuclear defence and explosive agents were also strengthened.

1.1.6. Crisis response and preparedness

Throughout 2018, the IcSP remained a key tool for EU diplomacy in crisis contexts and in its quest for

stability, conflict prevention and resolution, and peacebuilding. All 42 new crisis response actions

adopted responded directly to EU political priorities.

Commitments under the crisis response component of the IcSP amounted to EUR 254.1 million

–

55 % increase compared to 2017. Under the Annual Action Plan for conflict prevention,

peacebuilding and crisis preparedness, EUR 33.7 million were committed to longer-term

interventions. This component of the IcSP allowed for targeted support related to all major crises

worldwide, including ongoing

a ti ities i

out of

ou t ies listed as the least pea eful of

according to the Global Peace Index (

): Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic

of Congo, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Turkey, Ukraine and

Yemen.

The 2018 Annual Action Programme also consolidated IcSP support to civil society in third countries

to prevent conflicts and build peace while contributing to inclusive peace mediation and dialogue

processes at local, regional and international levels. While many of the IcSP actions take place in

Glo al Pea e I de

, I stitute fo E o o i s a d Pea e: No th Ko ea a d Russia a e the o l t o least pea eful

covered by the IcSP crisis response component.

ou t ies

not

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

areas suffering from prolonged conflicts, as outlined above, some address challenges in different

contexts, such as in Lesotho, Madagascar, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

Crisis response actions adopted in 2018 included the first specific mine intervention in north-eastern

S ia i a eas li e ated f o Da esh

the Glo al Coalitio ; o side a le e gage e t to ad a e

peace negotiations and support stabilisation actions in Central African Republic; continued support

to the Organization for Security and Co-ope

atio i Eu ope s OSCE s Spe ial Mo ito i g

Mechanism; innovative action on cybersecurity in connection with Ukrainian elections; and support

related to the crisis in Venezuela, including help to neighbouring countries receiving refugees.

In addition, newly adopted actions in Central African Republic, Mali and Somalia, as well as ongoing

programmes in Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo (

), Niger and Ukraine,

directly complement the work of CSDP missions, thereby contributing to the implementation of the

EU Integrated Approach in response to conflicts and crises. Furthermore, 2018 was the first year of

implementation of CBSD actions following the 2017 amendment to the IcSP regulation. So far, five

CBSD actions have been launched in four countries (Central African Republic, Lebanon, Mali and

Somalia) under Article 3, and one action has been adopted under Article 4 to build regional centres

for training in the areas of health, mine clearance or civil protection for military actors.

Work to coordinate international efforts in conflict and post-conflict settings continued with the UN

and other international organisations, notably the World Bank. Initiatives to contribute to

peacebuilding and stabilisation efforts in fragile mineral-rich areas (e.g. by promoting responsible

sourcing and trading of gold and diamonds in West Africa and Central Africa) have continued: the EU

used its rotating presidency of the Kimberley Process to attract additional attention. New support

has also been identified in the area of transitional justice, where a new expert facility will provide

fast and reliable access to experts and advisers for deployment in third countries.

1.1.7. Making a difference: New instruments and aid modalities

In order to finance the SDGs and respond to an increasingly complex world, development finance

needs to rely on a combination of funding sources. To increase the impact of ODA, public and private

funds must be leveraged as efficiently as possible. The EU must be ready to adapt and further

develop its financial instruments and policy tools for investments outside the EU if it is to deliver on

its ambitious commitments to sustainable development.

To this end, in 2017 the European Commission developed the EIP, a new EU initiative offering an

innovative way to attract more investment, in particular from businesses and private investors, to

countries in Africa and the EU Neighbourhood. At the core of EIP, the European Fund for Sustainable

Development (EFSD) combines a new guarantee instrument (total EUR 1.54 billion) with two regional

investment platforms (the Africa Investment Platform (AIP) and the Neighbourhood Investment

Platform, NIP), which together account for EUR 2.6 billion, by blending EU financial support with

loans and equity from eligible institutions that finance and manage development projects in

countries outside the EU.

This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999) and the

International Court of Justice (ICJ) Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EFSD guarantee aims to support investments in less developed and more risky countries in

Africa and the European Neighbourhood by attracting private sector players into sectors in which

they do not traditionally get involved. Under the EFSD guarantee, the Commission provides partial

guarantees to eligible financiers, who pass on the benefits of the guarantee to investment

operations

–

directly or via local private banks, investment funds or microcredit institutions

–

to the

end borrowers, such as MSMEs, through a wide range of financial instruments. These may include

loans (including local currency loans), guarantees, counter-guarantees, capital market instruments,

any other form of funding or credit enhancement, insurance and equity or quasi-equity

arrangements.

As of 31 December 2018, 28 guarantees have been validated via the EFSD, mobilising EUR 1.54

billion from the initial guarantee of the EIP, with the expectation of unlocking EUR 17.5 billion in

total investments in areas such as access to finance for MSMEs, energy and connectivity, agriculture,

cities and digital.

The EU blending allocated for 51 projects in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to leverage nearly

EUR 10 billion in sustainable investment and around EUR 9.5 billion for 43 projects in the

Neighbourhood.

Overall, programmes and projects approved by the EFSD by the end of 2018 are expected to

mobilise around EUR 37 billion in investment, bringing the EU close to its target of unlocking EUR 44

billion by 2020.

The first guarantee agreement was signed in December 2018 with the Dutch Development Bank

FMO fo the Nasi a Risk-Sharing

Facility. As a result, the EU will extend to FMO a guarantee of up

to EUR 75 million for its proposal. This will enable FMO to mobilise investment of around EUR 1

billion for the purpose of supporting migrants, displaced people and refugees, and youth, women

and underserved entrepreneurs in particular. The aim of the facility is to create or support up to

800 000 jobs in partner countries.

Another of the guarantees will enable the French Development Agency (AFD) to provide affordable

and sustainable credit to financially underserved producers and rural MSMEs. Projects enabled by

the guarantee will lead to greater financial inclusion of rural populations while promoting

environmentally responsible practices (i.e. climate-smart agriculture). These projects will also help

transform partner financial institutions, improving their technical skills and the range of financial

products available. The AFD estimates that the resulting projects will help to create or maintain at

least 750 000 jobs and improve access to finance for around 400 000 people and agribusinesses,

especially in the least developed and highly indebted countries.

1.1.8. Human rights and democracy

The 2030 Agenda reflects a human-rights-based vision, which is fully consistent with the EU policy

framework (

). While several SDGs make an explicit link between development and human rights

and democracy (in particular SDG 5, SDG 10 and SDG 16), all are underpinned by human rights.

Promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms is a key EU foreign policy objective as stipulated in the EU Treaty (Articles 2 and 21

of the Treaty on the EU (TEU)).

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The year 2018 marked the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In this

landmark year, the EU reaffirmed its support to human rights, democracy and good governance

throughout its financial instruments, both by reinforcing the rights-based approach to promote

human rights and democracy in development cooperation

–

as a result of its underpinning in the

new European Consensus on Development

–

and by dedicated support to human rights and

democracy worldwide.

Against a backdrop of increased attacks on human rights and human rights defenders, protection of

human rights defenders and support of civil society were emphasised, including enabling space for

action (e.g. freedom of association and assembly, freedom of expression). In October 2018, the EU

supported the Human Rights Defenders World Summit, bringing together over 150 human rights

defenders in Paris, and reaffirmed its strong commitment to protect them worldwide. Through the

European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) alone, more than 1 300 human

rights defenders under threat received assistance from emergency funds. Furthermore, the EIDHR

reinforced its emergency facility for civil society with an additional contribution of EUR 3.5

million (

), and more than 250 new civil society human rights/democracy initiatives were supported

worldwide (EUR 100 million). Special attention was given to some of the most difficult human rights

issues, fo e a ple, i the o te t of la d-g a i g a d li ate ha ge, e t ajudi ial killi gs a d

disappearances, forced labour and modern slavery, and freedom of religion and belief

(approximately EUR 20 million). The European Endowment for Democracy, with renewed financial

support from the EU, further extended its operations in the Neighbourhood, Turkey and the Western

Balkans, with 103 new initiatives funded in 2018 in support of civil society, independent media and

democracy activists.

Against a backdrop of continuing challenges to global democracy, the EU continues to reaffirm its

commitment to democratic processes, launching programmes totalling more than EUR 41.7 million

in some 30 countries in 2018. These programmes aim to support the electoral process and

institutions, parliaments, political parties, civil society and wider democratic governance. The EU also

deployed 9 fully fledged Election Observation Missions (EOMs), 10 Electoral Expert Missions (EEM)

and 4 follow-up missions in 2018.

EEMs aim to ensure that follow-up work focuses on the EOM

recommendations for the improvement of electoral processes and thus they are increasingly

important in the context of results-oriented management.

The lau h of the pilot p og a

e INTER PARES EUR

5 million) in 2018 aims to build capacity of

partner country parliaments through peer-to-peer exchanges with EU Member State parliaments. In

addition, the largest share of budget support

–

which represents 40 % of EU bilateral cooperation

–

goes to governance, providing an essential opportunity to reinforce dialogue in support of

democracy, justice reforms and the rule of law. Moreover, in 2018, the EIDHR included for the first

time a specific amount (EUR 5 million) to leverage digital technologies in support of global

democracy via civic activism and participation.

In 2018, the EU also reinforced its commitment to counter violence against women and girls. The

Spotlight Initiative

–

a EUR 500 million EU–UN strategic partnership

–

gained momentum with the

commitment of an initial EUR 320 million to eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls

in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and the Pacific.

https://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/sectors/human-rights-and-governance/democracy-and-human-rights/human-rights-defenders_en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.2.

Fostering sustainable development

1.2.1. Implementing the 2030 Agenda comprehensively and coherently

The 2017 European Consensus on Development aligns the EU with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable

Development and the SDGs, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda on financing for development and the

Paris Agreement on climate change. The Consensus is set out in the framework of EU external action

provided by the Treaty on the European Union (Article 21 on external action) and the Treaty on the

Functioning of the European Union (Articles 208–211 on development) and in the EU Global

Strategy. The Enlargement and revised European Neighbourhood Policies also contribute to

achieving the SDGs.

It is i the EU s i te est to pla a leadi g ole glo all i the i ple e tatio

of the 2030 Agenda

through its external action

–

doing so will foster a stronger and more sustainable, inclusive, secure

a d p ospe ous Eu ope. The EU s o ust o

it e t to the SDGs sig als its suppo t of

multilateralism.

National governments are responsible for implementing the 2030 Agenda. However, the EU will

continue to engage actively with partner countries through policy dialogues based on the SDGs,

making use of national development plans and voluntary national reviews of SDGs.

This goes hand in hand with the EU objective to promote joint programming with the Member States

and enhance cooperation with the UN. In accordance with the Consensus, the Commission is

o ti uousl updati g epo ti g s ste s fo o siste

ith the

Age da s follo

-up

processes and indicators and is working closely with Member States for greater impact at country

level

–

through joint programming, joint implementation and joint results frameworks

–

in line with

the Wo ki g ette togethe o

it e t. The Co

issio also

played a key role in forging the

renewed Partnership in Development between the EU and the UN, adopted in September 2018, in

support of accelerated SDG implementation at country level.

In response to the 2030 Agenda, the EU has revised its International Cooperation and Development

Results Framework and will report on this annually. To assess progress in partner countries, the

indicators for this revised framework have been based, where possible, on the internationally agreed

indicators for the SDGs.

SDGs are also reflected in major initiatives such as the proposal for a new external financing

instrument

–

the NDICI

– a d the EU s e pa t e ships ith Af i a, the Ca i ea a d the Pa ifi ,

that will succeed the Cotonou Agreement after 2020 and should work towards fulfilling the SDGs.

Getti g the p i ate se to full o oa d a d oosti g sustai a le i est e t e o d the EU s

borders remains a priority. The European EIP, an important initiative designed to contribute to the

achievement of the SDGs, ensures an integrated approach to boosting investments in Africa and in

the Eu opea Neigh ou hood ith a fo us o o ﬂi t-

and violence-aﬀe

ted a d f agile ou t ies,

landlocked countries and the least developed countries (LDCs) that are in greatest need.

1.2.2. The means of implementation of the new agenda

In line with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the EU has a comprehensive and integrated approach to

mobilising financing from all available sources (public and private, domestic and international) as

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

well as promoting other means of implementation, including the establishment of good policies and

policy coherence for development, which are needed to fulfil the SDGs.

the Co

issio pu lished its epo t I esti g i sustai a le de elop e t , i

hi h it

presented progress made by the EU and the Member States towards meeting the commitments of

the Addis Ababa Action Agenda between 2015 and 2017. Presented by Commissioner Mimica at the

2018 UN Financing for Development Forum, the overall message of the report is that the EU is

collectively on track to meet most of the commitments by 2030 if current efforts are maintained.

While the

figu es sho that the EU a d its Me e States e ai the o ld s la gest p o ide s

of ODA, more effort needs to be made in some areas, notably providing ODA to the LDCs.

Budget suppo t is e t al to the EU s i te atio al oope atio poli : it a ou ts fo a ou d

% of

EU bilateral assistance and is used in 91 countries or territories; it provides a platform for policy

dialogue and creates synergies with other aid modalities; it contributes to strengthening country

systems and budget processes in the context of SDG implementation; and it offers additional fiscal

space for necessary actions or reforms, rewarding performance when results are met. Investments,

blending or guarantees are supported by budget support contracts, which strengthen the economic

framework.

Other EU achievements in 2018 include bringing together aid, investment, trade, domestic resource

mobilisation and policies designed to unlock the full potential of all financial flows. Through the EIP,

the EU encourages investments in partner countries in Africa and the EU Neighbourhood region. The

EIP is expected to leverage at least EUR 44 billion in investment in sustainable development in Africa

and the countries neighbouring the EU by 2020. With the establishment of the EFSD, a key

innovation is the increased importance of investments underwritten by a new External Action

Guarantee. The EU allocated the entire EUR 1.54 billion guarantee of the EFSD to 28 projects and

signed the first guarantee agreement for a project designed to unlock financing for entrepreneurs in

sub-Saharan Africa and the EU Neighbourhood. The EU also allocated EUR 2.2 billion to blending

operations in an effort to leverage other sources of public and private finance. Through these

instruments, the EU supports actions to prevent climate change and promote the social and

economic empowerment of women.

Given the importance of the private sector as a contributor to inclusive growth and creation of

decent jobs, the EU has taken measures to promote local PSD in partner countries. Through

assistance for investment climate reforms, lending and venture capital facilities and technical

assistance to businesses (including MSMEs), the EU is promoting attractive policy environments.

Moreover, support for mobilisation of domestic resources is helping to improve the transparency,

fairness, effectiveness and efficiency of tax systems in partner countries.

The EU is helping partner countries make the most of the diverse financing sources available to

support SDG implementation (including Development Finance Assessments). It is also facilitating the

process of ODA modernisation and the development of the Total Official Support for Sustainable

Development (TOSSD) statistical measure to help identify available means of implementation (e.g.

investment, private mobilised resources, South–South and triangular cooperation and financial

flows) for emerging donors. An international task force co-chaired by the European Commission has

advanced the drafting of reporting instructions for the TOSSD.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.2.3. Working better together with Member States

Working better together for the SDGs is about the EU developing a European approach for

development cooperation in a partner country that adds value to collective bilateral development

cooperation, both in terms of policy dialogue and technical and financial support. The key

components that strengthen this framework are joint programming, joint results frameworks and

joint implementation.

By December 2018 there were 23 Joint Programming Documents in place globally, and intensified

efforts to reach the same level of commitment were underway in another 17 partner countries. To

further support and facilitate joint programming, the EU Joint Programming Guidance was published

in 2018, providing a basis for training EU staff. Work was undertaken during the year to document

current experiences and practices as well as to provide recommendations on joint programming in

conflict-affected and fragile states, joint programming in support of the SDGs and use of joint results

frameworks. These efforts were further complemented by production of joint programming case

studies, stories and videos from the field. The Global Learning Event on Joint Programming, which

shared knowledge among practitioners, and a joint mission by the EU and Member States to Mali,

also signalled closer European collaboration in development cooperation and external actions.

Coope

atio

et ee the EU a d the P a titio e s Net o k fo Eu opea De elop e t

Cooperation continued with a focus on the efficiency and effectiveness of joint implementation. Also

, Joi t P og a

i g Do u e ts e e lau hed i Côte d I oi e, Gha a,

Kenya and Senegal.

1.2.4. Policy Coherence for Development

In all the policies that it implements, the EU is committed to embracing the objectives of

development cooperation likely to affect developing countries. This is known as Policy Coherence for

Development (PCD) and is enshrined in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

Through this commitment, the EU aims to minimise contradiction, build synergy among its different

policies to the benefit of partner countries and increase the effectiveness of development

cooperation.

As highlighted in the 2017 European Consensus on Development, PCD is an important contribution

to the achievement of SDGs by partner countries and to the broader objective of policy coherence

for sustainable development.

Given that implementation of the 2030 Agenda requires a whole-government approach and

oo di atio effo ts at all le els, o k o PCD has ee i teg ated i to the Co

issio s o k o

implementation of the 2030 Agenda across all its policies. PCD is an important interface between

internal and external implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

To reflect this new approach, the Commission adapted its reporting on PCD by integrating it into the

overall EU reporting on the SDGs. In 2018, the Commission collected input from Member States and

started drafting the 2019 EU report on PCD. In addition, the scope of PCD has been broadened

beyond the traditional five strategic challenges (trade and finance, climate change, food security,

migration and security) to reflect the new dynamics of the SDGs and the requirements of the

Consensus.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The Commission promoted PCD in this new policy framework internally and with Member States,

the European Parliament and civil society.

Reporting from EU delegations on PCD issues was further reinforced to get better evidence on the

impact of EU policies in partner countries.

Work on the strategic evaluation of PCD, covering the period 2009–2016, started in 2016. The

Commission took account of the external evaluation and prepared a Staff Working Document to

present its conclusions.

1.2.5. Development effectiveness

The EU, along with its Member States, is actively engaged in improving aid and development

effectiveness. It adheres to the commitments of successive high-level forums on aid development

expressed in various declarations, the last one being the Nairobi Outcome Document from the

second High-Level Meeting of the Global Partnership in 2016.

In the new European Consensus on Development, the EU and its Member States reaffirm their

commitment to apply the key principles of development effectiveness: ownership of development

priorities by partner countries; focus on results, transparency and accountability; and inclusive

development partnerships. The EU coordinates and supports Member States in the implementation

of these principles, promoting a European approach that allows common positions and practices to

be developed in light of the 2030 Agenda.

In particular, the Commission has contributed in the areas of implementing and enhancing

development effectiveness at country level. The Commission supports the Global Partnership for

Effective Development Cooperation (GPEDC) goals and actively promotes the application of

development effectiveness principles across all development cooperation and aid modalities.

The Commission also directly contributes to, discusses and promotes use of the evidence generated

by the GPEDC Progress Reports (2016 and 2018). The reports are used to monitor implementation of

the development effectiveness principles through country-led and country-based processes, as a

tool for mutual accountability.

The Commission also launched studies to explore how to improve access to procurement by local

contractors, support the use of country systems and increase the impact on results of development

effectiveness principles. In addition, following discussions among Development Assistance

Committee (DAC) members, a revised DAC Recommendation on Untying ODA was approved,

resulting in wider coverage of eligible countries.

1.3.

Working together towards the SDGs

–

policy level

1.3.1. SDG 1 No poverty

Introduction

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with the 17 SDGs at its core, is the principal

international blueprint for poverty eradication and sustainable development.

The primary objective of the new European Consensus on Development is poverty reduction. EU

work across the SDGs contributes to eradicating poverty in all its dimensions. It requires an approach

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

that addresses the related issues of inequality, exclusion and discrimination and has a special focus

on the poorest and most vulnerable sections of society: growth must be inclusive and sustainable.

Tackling poverty in all its dimensions requires actions on all fronts (including education, health, social

protection, gender equality, strengthening resilience, etc.). To reduce economic and social

inequalities, the EU supports development of policies that seek to maximise positive social outcomes

and impacts. In this context, domestic resource mobilisation is seen as key to ensuring long-term

inclusive growth, poverty eradication and sustainable development.

The links between poverty, conflict, fragility and forced displacement are also addressed in a

comprehensive manner. This requires merging actions on human rights, food security, rule of law,

good governance, environmental degradation, displacement, peace, security, etc. While the focus is

kept on poverty eradication, the Consensus commits to a comprehensive approach to conflict and

crises. The EU tackles extreme poverty in fragile situations through its conflict early warning system

and better use of transition strategies that recognise the nexus between sustainable development,

humanitarian action, peace and security.

Ultimately, all development cooperation initiatives are designed to contribute to the overarching

SDG 1. Poverty eradication is considered to be the result of many interacting activities.

Overview and trends

The reduction in extreme poverty is one of the global success stories of the past 30 years. However,

significant areas of extreme poverty remain. The number of people living on less than USD 1.90 a

day has fallen to a record low of about 655 million (around 9

% of the o ld s populatio , ut

without significant shifts in policy, there will still be about 480 million people (approximately 6 % of

the o ld s populatio i e t e e po e t i

, po e t is e pe ted to e o e t ated

in the LDCs and conflict-affected countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Poverty is not just an

issue for developing countries

–

in 2018, 6.2 % of Europeans were suffering severe material

deprivation.

In the context of the new European Consensus on Development, the EU is committed to allocating at

least 20 % of its ODA to social inclusion and human development. Given the expected concentration

by 2030 of extremely poor people in fragile and conflict-affected regions, the EU continues to

strengthen ways to address the needs of the poor in those regions.

Although poverty has reduced, the related challenge of inequality within countries has increased

almost everywhere. Of the 10 most unequal countries in the world, 7 are in sub-Saharan Africa.

The EU attaches great importance to the link between humanitarian aid

–

as a rapid response

measure in crisis situations

–

and more medium- and long-term development action. More than 68

million people were forcibly displaced in 2018, and most of them were hosted in developing

countries with limited resources. Protracted displacement

–

that is, lasting five or more years

–

has

become the norm. Forcibly displaced people rely for years on humanitarian assistance despite this

not being designed to cater for long-term displacement. Throughout 2018, the EU continued to

prevent forced displacement from becoming protracted and to gradually end dependence on

humanitarian assistance in existing displacement situations by fostering self-reliance and enabling

the displaced to live in dignity.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

At policy level, the EU actively contributed to the process that led to the adoption of the Global

Compact on Refugees and the Global Compact for Migration by the end of 2018.

Case studies

The EU s use of udget support to eradi ate

poverty

The EU implements some 270 budget support programmes in 90 countries or territories. These are fully

alig ed ith pa t e ou t ies o

de elop e t poli ies, p io ities, o je ti es a d ou t s ste s i the

context of SDG implementation. Since 2003, EU budget support beneficiaries have achieved strong gains in

terms of reducing extreme poverty. Some budget support programmes directly support national strategies

for development and poverty reduction, aimed at tackling various root causes of poverty; others contribute

to the implementation of specific policies in given sectors. Also in this context, the EU policy dialogue and

performance monitoring pays particular attention to pro-poor measures advocating for policies that are

inclusive in their design and effectively address social or geographic disparities, including fiscal and tax

policies. Moreover, EU budget support increasingly focuses on low-income countries ( ). In 2017, 37 % of

total commitments were allocated to low-income countries compared to 26 % in 2014. This includes helping

fragile states to rebuild basic state functions and to improve their resilience.

The Wo ld Ba k assig s the o ld s e o o ies i to fou i o e g oups –

low, lower-middle, upper-middle and high

–

based on GNI per

capita calculated using the Atlas method. The unit for this measure is current US dollars. New thresholds are determined at the start of the

Ba k s fis al ea i Jul a d e ai fi ed fo

o ths, ega dless of su se ue t e isio s to estimates.

From 1 July 2018, the thresholds

for classification by income were: less than 995 (low); 996 to 3 895 (lower-middle); 3 896 to 12 055 (upper-middle); over 12 055 (high).

Source:

https://blogs.worldbank.org/opendata/new-country-classifications-income-level-2018-2019.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

European Commission, OECD, Finland and Germany: EU Social Protection Systems Programme

Launched in January 2015 and co-financed by the European Commission, the OECD and the governments of

Finland and Germany, this is a four-year programme supporting 10 low- and middle-income partner country

governments and national expert institutions in their efforts to develop comprehensive social protection

systems comprising social assistance, social insurance, active labour market measures and access to

essential social services and care. Partner countries include Cambodia, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kyrgyz Republic,

Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Togo, Vietnam and Zambia. Joining forces with international organisations

already working with the governments in these countries was central to the EU Social Protection Systems

Programme Strategy.

The programme provides support through a combination of:



country-driven technical assessments; for example, systemic capacity assessment and

development;

development of country-specific analytical tools to assess the current status and potential

pathways for the social protection system;

strengthening capacity for policymakers and practitioners.

One of the aims of the programme is generating evidence-based knowledge, for future EU cooperation and

for use by other development partners, on the effectiveness of social protection in reducing poverty and

vulnerability, addressing inequality and promoting social cohesion.

1.3.2. SDG 2 Zero hunger

Introduction

As of December 2018, if current trends continue, SDG 2 is unlikely to be achieved by 2030. World

hunger and food insecurity have been on the rise in the past few years, following earlier

improvements. This increase can largely be attributed to conflicts, natural disasters and climate

change. According to the 2018 Global Report on Food Crises, 821 million people were suffering from

hunger and malnutrition and more than 124 million people in 51 countries were in food crisis

situations. The EU and its Member States have been working with partners to address hunger in all

its forms, including by promoting sustainable and resilient agriculture. Agriculture and rural

development can be powerful drivers of growth, job creation and poverty reduction and therefore

contribute to other SDG targets as well.

Overview and trends

Support for growth of sustainable agricultural includes initiatives focused on scaling up research and

innovation. The Development Smart Innovation through Research in Agriculture (Desira) initiative,

launched at the One Planet Summit in December 2017, has regenerated momentum following

consensus over the benefits of boosting climate-relevant research and innovation in agriculture. The

EU continues its support in 2018 both by providing a platform and by mobilising around EUR 140

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

million to stimulate innovation at country, regional and global levels to transform agriculture in rural

areas.

New activities were developed in 2018 regarding agro-ecological intensification and agroforestry,

livestock, water management in farming systems, pest and disease surveillance, carbon

sequestration and agriculture knowledge and innovation systems in more than 20 countries. In

September, the EU hosted a conference together with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)

and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to help eradicate a virus that kills millions of

sheep and goats each year. At the conference, over 45 countries renewed their commitment to

globally eradicate

peste des petits ruminants

by 2030. In 2018, the Partnership for Research and

Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) started its operations to develop innovative solutions

for the sustainable management of water and agro-food systems, with the support of the EU, the

Member States and key Mediterranean partner countries. The Horizon 2020 framework programme

contributed EUR 220 million.

Building resilience has been a key component of EU support for agriculture and food and nutrition

security. In September, the EU heralded this approach at the UN General Assembly with a signing

ceremony to support the work of the Global Network against Food Crises. Having spearheaded the

Global Report in 2016, the EU, together with the FAO, the World Food Programme and additional

partners, produced the 2018 Global Report on Food Crises. Based on this report, and through the

EU s flagship esilie e i itiati e PRO-ACT

(Pro-Resilience Action), EU involvement in 18 countries

will support resilience building in tandem with humanitarian responses.

The EU plays a key role in supporting investments in agriculture and agri-food systems and making

sure that these are administered responsibly, that issues such as land governance receive sufficient

attention and that farmer organisations receive due support. As of 31 December 2018, the EU

supports land governance actions in about 40 countries and contributes to secure access and use of

land for men and women, which is crucial for sustainable development, food security and an

inclusive and vibrant agricultural sector. By the end of 2018, on top of grants, a further EUR 215

million had been provided to leverage additional private funding and support investments for

MSMEs.

In October, the

EU pu lished its P og ess epo t o the Co

issio s a tio pla o ut itio . The

EU is on track to fulfil its two commitments. It has already allocated 71 % of the EUR 3.5 billion

target, as a result of which 4.7 million children will have been averted from stunting by 2025.

Despite this being more than double the 2017 calculation of 2 million, 151 million children under the

age of 5 will continue to suffer from stunting.

I the thi d ie ial epo t, I ple e ti g EU food a d ut itio se u it poli

it e ts ,

pu lished i O to e

, EU do o s o e all alig e t ith EU poli p io ities is a al sed

according to two themes in particular: climate-resilient approaches and nutrition-sensitive

agricultural practices. The report shows that annual financial contributions from the EU and its

Member States to food and nutrition security increased to EUR 4.2 billion

–

an increase of 14.7 %

since 2014 and 24.8 % since 2012. Genuine efforts are made to ensure that support is climate-

sensitive (over 43 % promotes climate change adaptation) and gender-sensitive (over 57 % promotes

ge de e ualit a d o e s e po e e t .

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Follo i g pu li atio of that epo t, the Cou il adopted i po ta t o lusio s i St e gthe i g

glo al food a d ut itio se u it

/2018). Adopted in November 2018, they call on the EU

and its Member States to continue collaborating to improve the coherence and effectiveness of

development cooperation.

Another important achievement was the International Fund for Agricultural Developme

t s IFAD

release of the ABC Fund as a private impact investment fund with support from the EU (EUR 45

million).

Case studies

Empowering women and strengthening resilience

The Resilie e uildi g a d eatio of e o o i oppo tu ities i Ethiopia RESET II p og a

e is a

issio se i es i itiati e that ai s to add ess the oot auses of displa e e t a d i egula ig atio

in eight drought-prone areas of the country. With a budget of EUR 48.3 million from the EU Trust Fund

(EUTF) and Austria and the Netherlands, the programme is implemented by eight consortia of around 30

non-governmental organisations (NGOs) coordinating closely with federal and local government institutions

for the period 2016–2020.

Although the central role of women in resilience building is widely recognised, a strong gender dimension

has been lacking, prompting technical support from Commission services to strengthen the gender focus of

RESET II. Activities have included fieldwork in two clusters, each incorporating a self-assessment survey of

gender-responsiveness, and participation in an experience-sharing workshop organised by the EU

delegation.

Gender transformative approaches include: activities to promote positive behaviour change; engaging with

men and women on nutrition training, family planning and gender-based violence; and supporting women

in leadership to act as role models for others. Implementing partners are confident that these initiatives are

ha i g a positi e i pa t o

o e s e po e e t a d esilie e. Be efi

iaries cite more opportunities

for women to engage in income-generating activities, increasing their voice in decision-making (inside and

outside the home), more positive attitudes towards supporting girls in school and greater harmony in the

home.

Diversifying diets and livelihoods

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is a research centre co-funded by the EU and IFAD, which has a

project in Kenya called the 4K club. Implemented in partnership with local NGOs in Machakos (100 km

south-east of Nairobi) 50 students cultivate a diverse, nutritious and healthy food system in their school

garden.

The fruit and vegetables from the garden are used to provide healthy school meals. Clubs from surrounding

communities also participate in the project by taking saplings and seeds home for their own farms; thus the

project is helping to tackle malnutrition issues at the community level.

As of 31 December 2018, the Nutrition Food Portfolio has been developed for 16 sites across Ethiopia, Kenya

and Uganda. Participants in such projects improve their diets and can generate additional income by selling

their produce.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.3.3. SDG 3 Good health and well-being

Introduction

The EU supports progress towards SDG 3 through a comprehensive range of EU instruments

(bilateral programmes on health, population, gender and nutrition) and contributions to global

initiatives, UN agencies and civil society organisations (CSOs), working closely with other EU services

and Member States. Effective health policy and programmes require complementary work and

progress in other sectors and SDGs, such as SDG 2 (nutrition), SDG 4 (education), SDG 5 (gender

e ualit a d o e s e po e e t a d SDG

10 (reducing inequalities). At the same time, good

health is an essential component of the human capital of each country, and hence a co-determinant

for its economic and social development. The EU and its Member States support partner countries in

pu sui g a health i all poli ies app oa h a d e ou age oss-sectoral

and coordinated efforts

aimed at effectively and sustainably improving the quality, coverage and affordability of healthcare

for all.

Overview and trends

Health aid amounts to EUR 2.6 billion in the period 2014–2020, of which 50 % is allocated to global

initiatives, while the other 50 % is implemented through bilateral and joint EU actions in 17

countries (

), aimed at strengthening country health systems and supporting countries to reach

their SDG 3 targets, including universal health coverage. Many of the 43 countries that received EU

health aid from previous financial frameworks are still benefiting from programmes with a similar

objective of sustainably strengthening country systems and ensuring the most vulnerable and

marginalised population groups are being reached, including children under the age of five,

adolescents and youth, and pregnant and breastfeeding women. Sexual and reproductive health and

rights (SRHR) are priority areas for support, as reflected in the new European Consensus on

Development and the second EU Gender Action Plan (GAP II) (2016–2020), and represent an entry

point for gender equality and the empowerment of women. An estimated 30 % of EU health aid is

spent on reproductive, maternal, neonatal, child and adolescent health (EUR 469 million in 2017).

Contributions to global initiatives

–

e.g. the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria

(GFATM); Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance; the Universal Health Coverage Partnership of the World Health

Organization (WHO); the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

–

ensure that the EU plays a

significant role in shaping the international policy agenda. The Commission has pledged EUR 475

million to the Global Fund for the period 2017–2020. This represents about 5 % of total resources

spent and, in 2017, helped put 11.5 million people on life-saving HIV treatment, detected and

treated 5 million cases of tuberculosis (including treatment of 102 000 people with drug-resistant

tuberculosis), distributed 197 million mosquito nets to prevent malaria and treated 108 million cases

of malaria (

. The Co

issio s suppo t to Ga i EUR

200 million for 2016–2020, representing

about 2 % of total resources spent) helped to immunise 65 million children in 2017 (

). Through the

Afghanistan, Belize, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Grenada, Guinea Bissau,

Guinea Conakry, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, South Sudan, Tajikistan and Zimbabwe.

https://www.theglobalfund.org/media/7741/corporate_2018resultsreport_report_en.pdf.

https://www.gavi.org/progress-report/.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, the EU has supported the European and

Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) with EUR 500 million since 2003.

Furthermore, the Commission provided a grant to WHO of EUR 28 million during the period 2016–

2018 in support of the Universal Health Coverage Partnership programme. The programme

contributed to improving donor coordination and aid effectiveness and to strengthening health

s ste s i

pa t e ou t ies. The EU s o t i utio to the UNFPA Supplies T ust Fu d t o

grants, totalling EUR 45 million, for 2016–2020) helped improve access to SRHR, including family

planning in 46 mainly low-income countries. In 2017, the programme reached 15 million women

with quality family planning services. The contraceptives provided had the potential to avert 7.5

million unintended pregnancies, 18 000 maternal deaths, 114 000 child deaths and 2.3 million

unsafe abortions (

). In November 2018 the Commissioner pledged EUR 26.5 million to the World

Bank Global Financing Facility as a contribution towards innovative work aiming to bridge the

financing gap and improve health outcomes for women, children and adolescents.

In the framework of enlargement negotiations, the Commission services supported countries to align

to the EU

acquis communautaire

and standards. Through the Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA and

IPA II), support was provided to Bosnia and Herzegovina to transform care institutions (EUR 1

million), to North Macedonia to analyse secondary and tertiary health system effectiveness (EUR 0.6

million) and to Montenegro for the construction of a new health facility, to support early childhood

development, to reform the national disability determination system and to purchase microbiology

equipment (EUR 8.5 million).

The EU also supported actions against global health threats, such as air pollution and antimicrobial

esista e AMR , a d st e gthe ed p epa ed ess a d espo si e ess of ou t ies atio al health

systems against epidemics. It provides around EUR 200 million every year to support humanitarian

health programmes. U

de the EU s Pa t e ship I st u e t, EUR

9 million has been allocated to

add ess AMR i se e Lati A e i a ou t ies th ough de elop e t of atio al O e health a tio

pla s. The EU s F a e o k P og a

e fo Resea h and

Innovation, Horizon 2020 (

), covered

research on poverty-related and neglected infectious diseases as well as regional initiatives, such as

the second EDCTP programme (EDCTP2) (

) and other multinational initiatives. By the end of 2018,

Horizon 2020 supported 104 research projects worth EUR 431 million, and EDCTP2 supported 125

projects related to accelerating the development of medical interventions with a total estimated

value of EUR 264 million. These included 35 multicentre clinical research grants with a total

estimated value of EUR 223 million. Sustained investment in clinical research capacity in sub-Saharan

Africa remains a central priority for the EDCTP, including preparedness for (re-)emerging epidemics.

The EDCTP also continued to fund projects to strengthen ethics reviews and the regulatory

framework for conducting clinical research, as well as fellowships to strengthen research capacity,

promote scientific excellence and leadership. As of December 2018, 58 individual African fellowships

(39 male and 19 female) have been funded to promote scientific excellence and leadership, the

Alumni Network platform was launched and renewed funding was provided for four regional

networks of excellence focused on research capacity development.

https://unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/UNFPA_Supplies_Annual_Report_2017_FINAL.pdf.

http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/data/ref/h2020/legal_basis/fp/h2020-eu-establact_en.pdf.

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0556&from=EN.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

Progress towards universal health coverage and improved health equity in Bangladesh

The

Supporting Public Health Institutes Programme

(SPHIP) (2015–2020) strengthens institutes of public

health in low-income countries to assist national

authorities with evidence-based policymaking in key

public health areas. In Bangladesh the SPHIP project is

tackling health inequalities, focusing on the urban poor.

About one third of the urban population lives in slums,

with poor access to health services and deteriorating

health and nutrition conditions.

The Bangladeshi International Centre for Diarrhoeal

Disease Research, working closely with the Ministry of Health, collated evidence and strengthened the capacity

of decision makers to exploit the evidence to advocate for and implement policies that improve the health of

the urban poor.

Key results include:



stronger public health institutions able to promote evidence-informed policymaking;

increased dialogue between scientists, policymakers and the general public on urban health;

formulation and implementation of new policies on urban health, resulting in more effective and

equitable distribution of health services.

More information is available at

http://www.share4health.com/.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Boosting support to improve health outcomes for vulnerable women and children in northern Nigeria

Since 2013, the EU, in close partnership with Unicef,

has been supporting health authorities in two

northern states with a EUR 30 million programme to

address high maternal, newborn and child mortality.

An additional EUR 50 million (2016–2020) extends

coverage of the programme.

Key results include:



enhanced policy dialogue and strategic

planning with health authorities and

humanitarian and development actors and

establishment of community accountability

platforms;

A mother brings her baby for growth monitoring

Jega PHC, Kebbi State © Unicef/Nigeria/2018



strengthened community systems for management of common health conditions;

improved access to quality maternal, newborn and child health and nutrition services at primary care

facility level through upgrading of facilities and capacity building of staff, and enhanced outreach to

communities.

1.3.4. SDG 4 Quality education

Introduction

The EU continued its proactive engagement towards achieving SDG 4, supporting around 100

countries through a number of funding instruments and offering other support to global education

partnerships. For the 2014–2020 programming period, around 60 partner countries either included

education as a focal sector in their Multiannual Indicative Programmes or had cooperative

programmes with an education component. Bilateral support for education at country level is

provided by several programmes or projects and implemented through a mix of complementary

modalities. Of the education focus programmes, 21 provide budget support, which contributes

typically to strengthening education systems and enabling governments to achieve their strategic

goals.

Overview and trends

The EU, together with its Member States, is the biggest contributor to the Global Partnership for

Education (GPE), which supports basic education, focusing on the poorest countries and/or those in

fragile situations. For 2018–2020, an additional EUR 100 million was pledged, on top of the EUR 375

million for 2014–

. GPE s p io it is to p o ide all hild e a ess to edu atio . Th ough its

support for the GPE, the EU has contributed to the enrolment of millions more children in school.

Th ough the E as us+ p og a

e, the EU o ti ued to suppo t pa t e

countries to enhance the

employability of individuals and to reinforce intercultural dialogue and understanding. Between

a d

, u de E as us+ o ilit i highe edu atio ,

thousands of students and university

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

staff moved between Europe and the Neighbourhood South countries (32 000); the Western Balkans

(27 000); the Eastern Partnership countries (24 000); Asia (18 000); Africa (14 000); Latin America

and the Caribbean (5 000).

Bet ee

a d

, hu d eds of s hola ships fo joi t aste s deg ee p og a

es e e

awarded to: African, Asian and Latin American students (2 978); students from the southern

Neighbourhood (476); students from the Eastern Partnership countries (376); and students from the

Western Balkans (295).

Furthermore, projects for capacity building in higher education were funded to modernise and

reform higher education institutions, develop new curricula, and improve governance and build

relationships between higher education institutions and enterprises, focusing on: the southern

Neighbourhood (953); the Eastern Partnership (304); Africa, Asia and Latin America (254); and the

Western Balkans (68).

The EU also contributes to Building Resilience in Crises through Education (BRiCE) and Education

Cannot Wait (ECW). BRiCE supports access to quality education to preschool, primary and lower

secondary levels for children in fragile and crisis-affected environments in several African countries,

with EUR 24 million contributed for 2018–2021. The ECW fund supports education in crisis

situations. With an EU contribution of EUR 16 million, it helped to reach more than 650 000 children

during its first year of operation (2017–2018).

Ha essi g edu atio s u i ue t a sfo atio al pote tial is esse tial fo deli e i g o the EU s

commitment to leave no one behind. In this context, education in emergencies remained a political

priority for the EU throughout 2018. In May 2018, the European Commission issued the

Communication on Education in Emergencies and Protracted Crises for an increasingly coordinated

Humanitarian–Development Nexus approach and clear strategic priorities. Besides the substantial

development funding, in 2018 EU humanitarian aid has continued to scale up its budget for

education in emergency actions to 8 % of the humanitarian budget, amounting to over EUR 90

million. Through this funding, the EU provided support to girls and boys of primary and secondary

school age in over 30 countries. At the G7 Charlevoix Summit, the EU pledged to invest EUR 72

million over three years to promote equal access to quality education and learning opportunities.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

European School in Tbilisi

Context

The establishment of the first European School in the Eastern Partnership in Tbilisi is part of the broader

regional effort to address the needs of young people. It is a priority project in the context of the European

Neigh ou hood East oope atio

hi h, as pa t of the Easte Pa t e ship

Deli e a les fo

constitutes a key element of the Youth

Package endorsed at the Eastern

Partnership Summit of November 2017. The

Youth Package is designed to bring together

various actions into a comprehensive set of

measures addressing the educational, social

and economic challenges facing young

people in the Eastern Partnership region.

Objectives

The Youth Package aims:



to support young people in improving their professional opportunities through education;

to offer a high-quality secondary diploma course to pupils from Eastern Partner countries;

to base the educational approach on the European School system, bringing together the excellence

of the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a focus on European studies;

to promote cooperation, multicultural understanding, tolerance, fundamental values and a better

understanding of the EU and its engagement in the region.

Impact

With the suppo t of the EU s Me e States a d A e ia, Aze aija , Bela us, Geo gia, Moldo a a d

Ukraine, the Eastern Partnership European School opened its doors in September 2018 to 30 students aged

16–17 from the six Eastern Partnership countries.

These students passed a rigorous, merit-based selection process to obtain scholarships for their diploma

studies. They now have the opportunity to engage in European studies and consider EU issues in a

multilingual and multicultural environment, through academic courses and extracurricular activities.

Since its opening in September, the school has generated a lot of interest in Georgia and elsewhere in the

region. The 30 scholarship students reported very positive experiences at the end of the first academic

term, and as of December 2018, faculty members report that academic performance has been very high. In

addition, 24 other students (not funded by the EU schola

ship p og a

e hose to follo a Eu opea

Studies fo us, hi h is e ide e of the i te est i the p og a

e itself. A e all fo appli atio s fo the

2019/20 scholarships is in progress, and the intention is to increase the number of grants approved.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Iraq

–

capacity building in primary and secondary education to improve quality and equality

Context

In Iraq, conflict and the almost tripling of the population in the last 30 years resulted in an inadequate supply

of quality education. There are also new pressures from the influx of Syrian refugees and the movement of

internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly to Kurdistan. Although the enrolment rate for primary school

is 91 %, only 44 % complete on time, with wide discrepancies in both enrolment and completion between

governorates, gender and urban/rural populations.

Actions



Implement quality assurance of schools according to defined standards with a focus on issues of

inclusion, gender and IDPs to ensure schools are able to respond to emerging needs.

Build capacity to enhance the curriculum.

Support teacher development around inclusive pedagogies for excluded groups, and revise how

teachers are distributed throughout the country, with a focus on language/cultural issues.

Impacts



Financial aid for greater inclusion;

Advocacy by parents and teachers;

Increased parent–school dialogue.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Nepal

–

budget support

Context

Almost 10 % of the school population in Nepal

—

divided equally between girls and boys

—

still do not

attend school. A rather complex mix of causes, such as ethnicity, poverty, disabilities, discrimination and

language, keeps these children out of school. The EU support is enabling Nepal to make its schools more

inclusive at a quicker pace.

Actions



The EU is supporting the government to expand equitable access to schools and to improve the

quality, governance and resilience of the education system.

EU policy dialogue focuses particularly on three dimensions: early grades, disaster risk reduction

and equity.

Targeted interventions are being implemented in the most disadvantaged districts to reduce the

number of children not in school and to improve the learning achievements of the most vulnerable

groups.

Impact



Children from the poorest households, children with disabilities and children from deprived

communities will benefit from the Consolidated Equity Strategy, developed by the Ministry of

Education with the support of the EU and other development partners to tackle inequality in school

education.

1.3.5. SDG 5 Gender equality

Introduction

Gender equality and empowerment of women and girls have been core values and principles of the

EU since its foundation and key to EU development policy, as well as international relations policy,

and they feature prominently in the new European Consensus on Development as a key value and

principle of EU external action. GAP

II ide tified th ee ai p io it a eas: i E su i g gi ls a d

o e s ph si al a d ps hologi al i teg it ; ii P o oti g o e s a d gi ls so ioe o o i a d

cultural rights;

iii St e gthe i g gi ls a d o e s oi e a d pa ti ipatio i all de isio

-making

processes, in all settings and at all levels.

Overview and trends

Commission services contributed substantially to the operationalisation of the 2030 Agenda in the

field of gender equality. The GAP II implementation is fully underway, and the second report

covering 2017 was published in October 2018. It shows progress and actions taken by EU

delegations, the European Commission services, European External Action Service (EEAS) and EU

Member States throughout 2017, while underlining what still remains to be achieved in order to

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

attain the GAP II objectives and consequently the SDGs. The Council welcomed this progress in its

conclusions of 26 November 2018. The 2019 report is in preparation.

After two years of implementation, there is evidence of enhanced EU political leadership and

management ownership of the gender equality priority. The commitment to mainstreaming

continues to gain traction, as seen, for example, in the use of gender analysis in the formulation of

many more actions. What is notable in the reports is that all EU services are making greater use of

gender expertise to strengthen their actions and to contribute more comprehensively to GAP II

objectives and gender equality outcomes. The Commission is progressing towards achieving the

target of at least 85 % of all projects promoting gender equality by 2020. For 2018, a significant

increase in the number of new initiatives marked G1 or G2 is observed in the Neighbourhood and

enlargement area (55 % in 2018; 53.5 % in 2017; 46.5 % in 2016), while 68 % of new initiatives

undertaken in the development cooperation area were marked G1 or G2 (65.9 % in 2017; 58.8 % in

2016; 51.6 % in 2015) (

Enhanced political dialogues, including human rights dialogues, the more systematic use of the

mainstreaming of a gender perspective and steadily increasing financial contributions have proved

to be essential for promoting gender equality. The year 2018 was also marked by the

implementation of the Spotlight Initiative, the transformative EU–UN partnership aiming to

eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls worldwide. Launched in September 2017

with EUR 500 million, EUR 320 million was committed in 2018 with the remaining amount expected

to be committed in 2019.

A o g the fu ds o

itted, the Safe a d fai p og a

e EUR

25 million, November 2017) aims

to improve the working conditions of female migrants who move from 11 ASEAN countries to Gulf

countries. A further EUR 32 million was devoted to projects dedicated to fighting against sexual and

gender-based violence in the most remote areas and in forgotten crises. In this context, specific

support was provided to Panzi Hospital and Foundation in South Kivu (Democratic Republic of

Congo), managed by the Nobel Prize Laureate Dr Mukwege.

Close to EUR 45 million have been committed to fighting against femicide in Argentina, El Salvador,

Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico.

Eight country programmes (Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Uganda and

Zimbabwe) have been finalised in sub-Saharan Africa (EUR 220 million) with the objective of

preventing, combating and prosecuting sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls,

including elimination of harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female

genital mutilation. This component will also contribute to promoting, protecting and fulfilling SRHR.

In all the above-mentioned components of the Spotlight Initiative, CSOs play a key role both in the

definition of the priorities and in their implementation and monitoring. Combating violence against

women is also a priority across all Neighbourhood countries, where the Commission is supporting

the signature and ratification of the Istanbul Convention. In addition, the Commission continues to

fi a e a ifold p oje ts. Fo i sta e, the p oje t E su i g sustai a le de o ati go e a e

a d hu a ights EUR

3 million) focuses on the southern Mediterranean region. The project

G1 indicates that the i

itiati e is ge de se siti e ; G i di ates that it is suppo ti g ge de a hi e o ge de t a sfo

Source:

https://www.oecd.org/dac/gender-development/Handbook-OECD-DAC-Gender-Equality-Policy-Marker.pdf.

ati e .

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

E di g iole e against

women in the Western Balkans and Turkey: Implementing norms, changing

i ds EUR

illio , fu ded u de the

IPA II, focuses on the most disadvantaged groups of

women in these regions.

The

issio also o ti ued its poli dialogue o

o e s

empowerment with the Union for

the Mediterranean (UfM). During the October 2018 meeting in Lisbon, the Union established a

mechanism to monitor the progress made by UfM Member States towards gender equality.

Policy dialogue and technical assistance continue to bring gender equality into the Enlargement and

Neighbourhood Policy process in 2018. There are a number of projects ongoing with UN agencies to

suppo t edu atio a d o e s e plo e t i , fo e a ple, Eg pt a d Tu isia.

The EU is

supporting young Libyan entrepreneurs, in particular female and youth entrepreneurs, by providing

t ai i g ia its Suppo t to Li a fo e o o i i teg atio , di e sifi atio a d sustai a le

e plo e t .

Under the EUTF in response to the Syrian crisis, the Commission in 2018 launched two

important initiatives: a project (EUR 12.5 million) with UN WOMEN to strengthen the resilience of

Syrian women and girls and host communities in Iraq, Jordan and Turkey; and a project (EUR 12.5

million) with the EuroMed Feminist Initiative designed to reinforce access to protection,

participation and services for women refugees, IDPs and host communities.

In 2018, the EU allocated nearly EUR 30 million in humanitarian aid to help fight sexual- and gender-

based violence. In line with its policy on gender in humanitarian aid (

), support includes prevention

of sexual violence and response through a comprehensive multisectoral approach including medical

care, psychological support, referral to legal services and, where possible, livelihood support or

socioeconomic assistance (

Fu the o e, f o Ju e

to De e e

, the EU led the glo al hu a ita ia i itiati e Call

to action on protection from gender-

ased iole e i e e ge ies

(

), bringing together 82

partners comprising governments and donors, international organisations and NGOs. Its aim is to

drive change and foster accountability from the humanitarian system to address gender-based

iole e f o the ea liest phases of a isis. Du i g its leade ship of the Call to a tio , the EU

el o ed

e e s, i itiated the Call to a tio i Nige ia a d De o ati Repu li of

Congo (implementing partner: UNFPA), organised 10 awareness-raising workshops through its field

offices and facilitated the drafting of the 2017 Call to Action Progress Report.

The EU has built key alliances to strengthen the voice and participation of women at work. The

Partnership Instrument

aims to achieve

progress

to ards o e s e o o i e po er e t;

this

cannot come solely from public policy but must include active engagement by the corporate sector,

which makes up 90 % of global employment. Greater participation of women in the workforce will

add ess ot o l e t e hed i e ualities ut also e o o i sho tfalls. Ad a i g o e s e ualit

could add USD 12 trillion to global gross domestic product (GDP) by 2025

according to a McKinsey

study (

https://ec.europa.eu/echo/files/policies/sectoral/gender_thematic_policy_document_en.pdf.

https://ec.europa.eu/echo/what/humanitarian-aid/gender-sensitive-aid_en.

http://ec.europa.eu/echo/files/aid/countries/factsheets/thematic/call_to_action_on_protection_from_gender_based_violence_in_eme

rgencies_en.pdf.

https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/employment-and-growth/how-advancing-womens-equality-can-add-12-trillion-to-global-

growth

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

Partnership Instrument actions

Three Partnership Instrument actions are working in synergy to increase commitment of the public and

private sectors to gender equality and the empowerment of women in the world of work at all levels.



WE EMPOWER G7 countries

fa ilitates ulti-stakeholder

dialogue and exchanges between

companies, governments and public institutions in Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the

United States and the United Kingdom.

WIN WIN

p o otes the e o o i e po e e t of o e i the o po ate se to i Lati

America and the Caribbean, in particular in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Jamaica and

Uruguay.

WE EMPOWER Asia

p o otes

the economic participation and empowerment of women in

China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. It focuses on the role

that the private sector can play in partnership with the public sector and networks of women

entrepreneurs, women-owned business and associations.



Activities include helping companies develop and implement corporate policy and practice by providing

t ai i g o ho to easu e, o ito a d epo t p og ess i

o e s e po e e t i ple e tatio , a d

facilitating dialogues to develop tools and incentives for improving the situation of women at work.

EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis

From economic hardship to a thriving business

O e of the fi st o e s ights ad o ates a d e trepreneurs

from Mafraq, Jordan, Asmaa turned her

precarious economic situation into a profitable business. After her separation, Asmaa moved back to her

pa e ts ho e ith he si k daughte . The e, she ope ed a lothes shop a d, tha ks to fu ds p o ided

through the

EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis,

Asmaa received a loan that helped her

expand her business.

With the shop s

profits, Asmaa was able to treat her sick

daughter and help her parents, relatives and

neighbours. Asmaa is now well known in the

it fo he

o e s ights a ti is ,

spreading the message that women should

not back down because of pressure from

society. She likes to tell women to step up

and work and is convinced that this is the

only way to success and emancipation. This

initiative is one of many similar projects

funded through the EU Regional Trust

Fu d s

Leaders project

As of December

2018, it has helped some 250 000 Syrian and local community members, like Asmaa, to become

economically self-reliant.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.3.6. SDG 6 Clean water and sanitation

Introduction

Population growth, migration, urbanisation, industrialisation, energy demands on water, climate

change, agricultural expansion and changing consumer patterns are combining to increase the

pressure on finite freshwater resources, leading to overuse and pollution of surface water and

groundwater together with forced migration and conflict over dwindling resources.

Overview and trends

While the fact that SDG 6 represents a cornerstone in the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and the

objectives of the new European Consensus on Development is widely recognised, according to the

2018 SDG 6 Synthesis Report, presented at the 2018 High-Level Political Forum for Sustainable

Development, the world is not on track to reach SDG 6 by 2030.

The EU Council Conclusions on Water Diplomacy (November 2018) call upon EU institutions and

Me e States to gi e the e essa o side atio to the i po ta e of ate a d sa itatio i the

programming of future financial and technical cooperatio

ith pa t e ou t ies –

a clear demand

to continue and strengthen EU action in this domain.

Through its external instruments, the EU supports actions on water and sanitation in four main

areas:



investments in water and sanitation infrastructures to improve living and health conditions

for urban and rural populations, with a focus on the most vulnerable people;

promotion of sustainable water management and good water governance at all levels,

notably by aligning integrated water resource management with the EU Water Framework

Directive, the Nexus approach between water–energy–food ecosystems and the accession

and implementation of the Water Convention in partner countries;

support for river basin planning and facilitation and user participation in decision-making

and support for establishment and functioning of water user associations;

development of water-related scientific and technical knowledge as well as capacity building

for water operators, basin organisations and students, including relevant indicators and data

and improvement of water monitoring.



The EU is the biggest donor to humanitarian action in the water, sanitation and hygiene sector,

allocating around EUR 200 million each year to ensure safe access to water services for populations

threatened by humanitarian crises.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case study

Nakuru County Sanitation Programme: How to create value out of sewage

Context

Sanitation infrastructure in the low-income county of Nakuru (Kenya) is inadequate (less than 30 % in 2013).

The situation is compounded

Naku u s po ous a d sa d soil te tu e, hi h heighte s the isk of

groundwater contamination.

The Nakuru County Sanitation Programme (NCSP), finished in 2018, was an EU-funded public–private

partnership that applied a behavioural change and market-based model of accelerating sanitation

improvements. The total cost of the programme was EUR 4.2 million, of which EUR 2.5 million came from

EU financing.

Objectives

The aim was to implement a sanitation value chain with the following objectives:



Impact

increase hygiene awareness and sanitation coverage in Nakuru Town;

establish collection facilities and transport services for hygienic and sustainable capture and

removal of human waste;

controlled and certified production and sales of human waste products on a large scale.

The NCSP has executed a hygiene awareness campaign and improved more than 9 000 latrines, serving

some 90 000 people. The programme has also introduced a faecal sludge collection scheme. The waste is

processed into briquettes that are sold on the local market as a replacement for traditional charcoal fuel.

1.3.7. SDG 7 Affordable and clean energy

Introduction

Sustainable energy is a key priority for the EU. It remains a pivotal theme in the new European

Consensus on Development (

), and the EU remains firmly committed to implementation under the

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (

Overview and trends

Africa is a key priority for EU energy cooperation. On 8 November 2018 at the Africa Investment

Forum in Johannesburg, the European Commission organised the launch of the AU–EU High-Level

Platform on Sustainable Energy Investments (SEI Platform). The SEI Platform will function as an

energy task force under the Africa–Europe Alliance (

), which was launched by Commission

President Juncker in September 2018. The SEI Platform will bring together public and private

https://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/sites/devco/files/european-consensus-on-development-final-20170626_en.pdf.

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/post2015/transformingourworld.

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/africaeuropealliance_en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

representatives as well as academia

–

all active in the energy field

–

to produce concrete

recommendations and actions that will help to boost investments in the sustainable energy sector.

The SEI Platform will be operationalised during 2019.

The EU continues to support the Africa-led Africa Renewable Energy Initiative (AREI) (

). AREI aims

to a ele ate a d s ale up the ha essi g of the o ti e t s huge e e a le e e g

potential. The

EU has committed EUR 1.5 billion. By the end of 2018, 24 projects, expecting to leverage EUR

4.5 billion in investments and generate 2.3 GW of renewable energy by 2030, have been approved

under AREI.

The EU promotes ownership and knowledge exchange at local level. The EU-funded Covenant of

Mayors in Sub-Saharan Africa (CoM SSA) (

) supports local authorities in sub-Saharan Africa in their

fight against climate change and in their efforts to ensure access to clean energy. The initiative

reached 140 signatory cities by the end of 2018.

Through the EU Technical Assistance Facility, the EU helps partner countries enhance the investment

climate in their energy sectors by helping improve, among other things, regulatory frameworks.

Through the Technical Assistance Facility, the EU has supported the African Union Commission (AUC)

in the harmonisation of the regulatory frameworks for the electricity markets in Africa. The initiative

was adopted by AU heads of state in July 2017 at the AU Summit. The implementation of the

initiative has been intensified during 2018, with several missions involved in partner countries.

The EU s i o ati e fi a ial tools to oost p i ate se to i est e t i the de elop e t

cooperation are expanding. Under the EFSD

–

a key component of the EIP

–

eight guarantee

instruments are approved (totalling EUR 603.5 million), of which six focus on Africa (

). Under the

Electrification Financing Initiative (ElectriFI)

– the EU s flagship i itiati e to de-risk

investments in the

energy sector

–

16 projects are in operation. ElectriFI country windows have also been created for

Be i , Côte d I oi e, Nige ia a d Za ia, a d a egio al i do has ee

eated fo the Pa ifi

region.

In late 2018, the EU confirmed its support of EUR 23 million to the African Development Bank

(AfDB)-led Digital Energy Facility (DEF). The aim of the facility is to support start-ups and innovative

small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) active in the energy access area by providing financial

and digital skills training.

As part of a broader Africa–Europe Partnership, a dedicated research and innovation partnership on

climate change and sustainable energy has been established to support the development of joint

research activities in renewable energy production and use, and to promote innovation. Under this

cooperation, co-funded by the Horizon 2020 programme, support is provided for research, including

the exchange of European and African researchers, to implement a mutually beneficial research and

capacity-building agenda in renewable energy technologies. This action intends to establish a public–

private partnership adapted to the African context and align public and institutional investments in

research and innovation in Africa.

http://www.arei.org.

http://comssa.org/.

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/eu-external-investment-plan_en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Du i g

, the EU i itiati e

Women and sustainable energy (EUR 18.1 million) has become fully

operational (

). The initiative promotes the economic empowerment of women in the energy sector

and covers three projects in 10 countries (

Energy security and energy efficiency continued to be among the key priorities for EU cooperation

ith Easte Pa t e ship ou t ies. The EU E e g i itiati e deli e ed e la s a d i p o ed

governance in the energy sector. The High-Level Energy Efficiency Initiative was implemented,

bringing together international financial institutions in upscaling energy efficiency reforms and

investments.

The St ateg o A edi le e la ge e t pe spe ti e fo a d e ha ed EU e gage e t ith the

Weste Balka s as adopted

the Co

issio o

February 2018, confirming the merit-based

prospect of EU membership for all countries in the region with a comprehensive action plan

including components on connectivity and energy.

In the Western Balkans, implementation of the existing Projects of Energy Community Interest (PECI)

priorities continued. While no new project was launched in 2018, the Energy Community identified

and approved the 2018 list of PECI projects, of which 11 could benefit from IPA assistance.

Montenegro

and

North Macedonia

made important progress in implementing and enforcing the

Energy Community

acquis communautaire

but the overall picture was mixed in 2018, despite the

Se eta iat s o k. The Wi te pa kage fo a lea e e g e o o

as ei g t a sposed to the

Energy Community. The EU continues to be actively engaged in the EU-facilitated dialogue between

Belgrade and Pristina and regional cooperation overall.

In the three regions, the EU continues to support the High-Level Energy Efficiency Initiative. In this

action plan, the EU and the participating international financial institutions (

), as well as the Energy

Community Secretariat, have put together a set of actions and initiatives to support energy

efficiency in pilot countries (Georgia,

Serbia, Tunisia

and

Ukraine)

to successfully transit to

sustainable energy and climate policies.

The EU Partnership Instrument also contributes to achieving SDG 7. It will offer a different approach

to established models of development cooperation by promoting policy cooperation with countries

of strategic interest to the EU. In particular, it will allow the EU to establish a wider political dialogue

ith e e gi g pa t e s. It ill also suppo t the EU s elatio s ith ou t ies that a e o lo ge

eligible for bilateral development aid. The Partnership Instrument is well aligned with the aims of

this SDG, reinforcing cooperation on global challenges, addressing in particular climate change,

energy security and the protection of the environment. Developing energy cooperation with partner

countries and promoting renewable and sustainable energy sources remains a key focus. In 2018,

the EU Partnership Instrument continued its actions on themes such as clean energy, energy

efficiency and liquefied natural gas. The partner countries with Partnership Instrument intervention

in this sector were Argentina, China, India, Iran, Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

https://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/sites/devco/files/facsheet-women-sustainable-energy-no-cropmarks_03152018_en.pdf.

The three projects take place in: i) Kenya, Sierra Leone and Uganda; ii) Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Honduras and Malawi; and iii) Mali, Niger

and Senegal.

The international financial institutions are the International Finance Corporation, the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European

Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and German development

bank KfW.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

countries. The Partnership Instrument also contributed to areas relevant to SDG 7 in a number of

other countries through the International Urban Cooperation programme.

Case studies

Promoting off-grid energy in East Africa through innovative financing

Pu li fu ds a e ot suffi ie t to eet toda s a d to o o s e e g de a d. The e is a u ge t eed fo

increased private sector investment to reach the 2030 Agenda target of providing universal access to

modern, affordable, reliable and sustainable energy by 2030. ElectriFI plays a central role in EU energy

cooperation, and providing energy to rural off-grid areas is one of its main objectives.

Azuri Technologies, one of leading providers of

PayGo solar products and services across

sub-Saharan Africa, approached ElectriFI in

2017 to help structure and fund a new

debt-financing facility in East Africa. The first

phase is being deployed in Kenya. Subsequent

phases of the fa ilit

ill e pa d to Azu i s

other key territories in East Africa, including

Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

Results by the end of 2018 include:



about 59 000 connections

;

295 635 direct beneficiaries with new or improved access to energy

;

installed capacity of 0.97 MW

;

37 650.44 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions saved

;

1 871 direct and 14 042 indirect jobs created.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Harmonising rules on African electricity markets

Regional energy markets transcend multiple jurisdictions. This calls for the harmonisation of policies,

legislation, regulation and institutional frameworks at the regional and continental levels to enhance

coordination and cooperation as well as to remove barriers to cross-border trade and investment. A joint

initiative of the EU and the AUC aims to integrate and harmonise regulatory frameworks for electricity

markets in Africa.

The EU s Te h i al Assista e Fa ilit , i lose

cooperation with the AUC, has developed a

strategy and action plan to accelerate the

process of integration and harmonisation of

continental and regional electricity markets.

The heads of state and government of the AU

adopted both documents in July 2017.

In the course of 2018, a number of activities

have been successfully deployed.

Harmonised transmission tariffs

Regulation of cross-border electricity trading

requires a methodology for transmission costs and tariffs within each power pool. Therefore, a harmonised

continent-wide transmission tariff methodology for the electricity sector has been developed for

international bilateral transactions, and pilot testing has commenced.

Guidelines for minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and energy labelling

The adoption of MEPS and labelling of appliances at the continental level will save energy in the short term,

reduce demand from the grid, lower electricity bills for consumers, improve living standards and, ultimately,

facilitate energy access for all African households. In the course of 2018, guidelines were developed and

tested through consultation in Egypt, Namibia, Senegal and Uganda (one per African subregion) and are

expected to be adopted in March 2019.

1.3.8. SDG 8 Decent work and economic growth

Introduction

In 2018, the EU supported SDG 8 through the implementation of ongoing actions and the adoption

of several new actions funded by various financing instruments.



The Sustai a le i est e t li ate a d alue hai s p og a

e EUR

16.7 million) aims to

enhance dialogue with the private sector to prioritise reforms in the investment and

business environments, promote financial inclusion, promote knowledge sharing and

dissemination, and mobilise technical and advisory support for key stakeholders in partner

countries.

E ha i g de e t o k, t a spa e

a d t a ea ilit fo sustai a le ga e t alue hai s

(EUR 19.2 million) aims to improve working conditions, occupational health and safety,



European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

environmental compliance and gender equality at factory level. It also aims to help

government agencies, national institutions, employers and worker organisations in partner

countries to develop decent work public policies and practices.

Overview and trends

A ag ee e t has ee sig ed ith Ge a de elop e t a k KfW to i ple e t the EU s

contribution to the Women Financial Inclusion Facility action (EUR 10 million, including EUR 1 million

f o the Eu opea Pa lia e t . It is the Co

issio se i e s fi st le ded fi a e fa ilit e ti el

dedicated to the promotion of access to financial services and digital and financial literacy for

women.

Also, P o oti g espo si le suppl hai i the a ea of o fli t i e als TG

as sig ed ith the

Netherlands Enterprise Agency (EUR 5.4 million). The contract with the International Labour

O ga izatio s ILO I te atio al T ai i g Ce t e has ee e te ded,

promoting decent work,

combating child and forced labour in global supply chains and assessing the impact on employment

of EIP investments.

Two contracts promoting responsible value chains in Asian, African and Latin American countries

have been signed, na

el : i Botto UP! P o oti g a sustai a le otto a d ga e t alue hai

f o Ethiopia otto to Eu opea o su e s ith Solida idad Nede la d EUR

1.4 million); and ii)

SMART-TAG,

sustainability, more consumer awareness, responsibility and transparency in the

te tile a d ga e t se to s ith SEQUA EUR

1.35 million).

In the area of skills development in developing countries, to strengthen the relationship between

vocational education and training (VET) and the private sector in partner countries, the VET Toolbox

was officially launched in 2018. Also in 2018, the scope of Socieux+, an ongoing short-term peer-to-

peer technical facility based on the TAIEX model, has been widened in terms of fields of assistance

and number of partner countries covered (mostly in Africa and Latin America).

Suppo ted

EU ilate al age ies, the a tio I t a-ACP

TA facility improving the business and

i est e t li ate th ough st u tu ed dialogue EUR

10 million) contributes to the wider efforts for

capacity building for EU delegations, ACP regional economic committees and local development

fi a ial i stitutio s. The a tio Capa it uildi g of i e al i stitutio s a d of s all-scale

private

sector operating in low-

alue i e als i ACP ou t ies: Phase II EUR

10 million) encourages

continued capacity building for MSME employment and income in the development minerals sector.

Rega di g i ple e tatio of o goi g a tio s, a se i e o t a t e titled P o ote ACP–EU

private

se to de elop e t k o ledge a age e t EUR

6 million) was signed to support the ACP

Secretariat in coordinating the ACP PSD programme, including learning from ongoing and previous

PSD programmes, reporting and communication of PSD actions and enhanced collaboration

between ACP private stakeholders.

Agreements were also signed with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (EUR 8

million) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) (EUR

illio u de the a tio Suppo t to

business-friendly and inclusive national and regional policies and strengthen productive capacities

a d alue hai s to help ACP pa t e ou t ies i p o e thei i est e t a d usi ess

environment.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The Pa t e ship I st u e t a tio Respo si le usi ess o du t i Lati A e i a a d Ca i ea

(OECD, EUR 3.2 million, and ILO, EUR 6 million) raises awareness of unsustainable behaviour,

particularly among SMEs, aiming to exchange information and share best practice (e.g. in

go e a e, t a spa e

a d i ol i g i il so iet i poli

aki g . The a tio Respo si le supply

hai s i Asia U ited Natio s De elop e t P og a

e UNDP , EUR .

illio suppo ts the

implementation of responsible business conduct (RBC) by mapping current approaches, showing

businesses the added value of adhering to RBC and collecting tools, lessons learned and factors

associated with implementation success/failure.

The EU is continuing to support the transition of IPA II beneficiaries into functioning market

economies able to withstand the competitive pressures of the EU Single Market. In this context, a

new regional action for EUR 19.8 million was adopted in 2018 to support the implementation of

efo s ide tified i the e efi ia ies E o o i Refo P og a

es, de elop a o petiti e p i ate

sector and support implementation of a regional economic area.

The egio al p og a

e Suppo t to a e a li g usi ess e i o e t fo MSME de elop e t a d

fi a ial i lusio

as lau hed i

to suppo t e o o i go e a e a d efo s fo

sustainable economic growth, enhanced public and private sector investments, and MSME

development through improved access to finance, job creation and economic inclusiveness in the

southe Medite a ea pa t e ou t ies. A fi a i g ag ee e t as sig ed fo the Skills

development and matching for labour market needs

p og a

e i Geo gia so that the edu atio

system can better respond to labour market demand and forge closer links between the private

sector and VET institutions.

Case studies

SANAD Middle East and North Africa Fund for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Phase III)

This fund (EUR 23.4 million) was signed to create and maintain employment, especially for young people,

primarily through supporting MSMEs; to reduce poverty by facilitating self-employment, primarily through

microfinance; and to build inclusive financial systems by cooperating with banks, microfinance institutions,

leasing companies and other institutions to facilitate access to financial services.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU4Business: Women in business in the Eastern Partnership

Context

The Wo e i usi ess p og a

e, i ple e ted

the EBRD u de the EU Busi ess i itiati e, helps

women-led SMEs access the finance and know-how that they need in order to grow. Specifically, the EBRD

provides dedicated credit lines to local banks and offers business advice to help companies become more

competitive. The programme also offers training, mentoring and other support so women entrepreneurs can

share their experiences.

Objectives

The o je ti es a e to p o ote o e s e t ep e eu ship, a ess to fi a e a d

participation in business.

Impact

The programme has secured a number of outcomes:

access to finance:

(a)

dedicated credit lines were provided to participating financial institutions for lending to eligible

women-led SMEs,

(b)

technical assistance was provided to participating financial institutions,

(c)

marketing and outreach were targeted at female clients;

access to know-how:

(a)

business advisory services and coaching was provided to women-led SMEs,

(b)

training in key entrepreneurial skills was provided to women entrepreneurs,

(c)

networking seminars were held for women in business;

highlights:

(a)

more than 2 300 women-led SMEs received loans under the programme (total value EUR 21.6

million),

(b)

almost 400 women entrepreneurs were trained or coached,

(c)

more than 100 women in participating financial institutions were trained or coached.

The p oje t sig ifi a tl helped the o pa to o pete su essfull du i g the e o o i slo do

a d

to uild a st o g di e t dist i utio et o k, sa s Gul a a Hasa o a, Di e to of ESSE LLC,

a woman-led

a esso a d ho e a e p odu ts o pa i Aze aija . With help f o the Wo e i

usi ess

programme, the company introduced an effective recruitment and sales system, and as a result, turnover

was up 18 %, customer base increased 25 % and ESSE was able to add new product lines and open two

regional offices.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.3.9. SDG 9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Introduction

Connectivity plays a fundamental role in achieving the targets of the SDGs, notably the SDG 9 target

on quality and resilient transboundary infrastructure. To boost implementation of the transport-

related elements of SDG 9, in 2018 the EU continued to focus on supporting strategic multimodal

corridor development that builds on economic, social and environmental sustainability.

Overview and trends

Blending operations represented another important pillar in support of multimodal transport

corridor development in Africa. In 2018, EU contributions (EUR 91 million) leveraged a further

EUR 688 million to interconnect Africa and to enhance access to rural populations through safe and

resilient transport networks. Cameroon, Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar and Uganda were the

main beneficiaries in central, eastern and western Africa and the Indian Ocean region, along

respective regional corridors.

F o a poli pe spe ti e, the EU ai tai s its seat o the oa d of the Af i a t a spo t poli

p og a

e , hi h is ele a t fo poli a d st ateg suppo t to Af i a go e

e ts a d egio al

economic communities. In 2018 the EU participated in international forums at G7, G20, UN and

OECD levels to make available quality infrastructure principles, standards and approaches that are

essential to deliver on SDG

. Fu the o e, the EU s e gage e t i p oje t i est e t, deli e a d

capacity building through EU investment facilities aimed to facilitate cooperation between hard

(investment) and soft (governance) perspectives.

From a strategic perspective, the coordination and steering of the joint Africa–EU infrastructure

agenda towards smart transport corridor development was fundamental. This also involved

suppo ti g the aste st ategi o e ti it pla fo Af i a: the P og a

e fo i f ast u tu e

de elop e t fo Af i a . Si ila effo ts ha e ee

ade fo the EU–Asia

connectivity agenda.

In science, technology and innovation, ACP–EU support for more than 350 research centres, higher

education institutions and innovation partners continued throughout 2018. All the projects funded

th ough the ACP S ie e a d te h olog II p og a

ended in 2018. These projects strengthened

the capacities of research and innovation stakeholders, nurtured international collaboration,

consolidated research partnerships and helped apply research results to specific development

needs.

A new EUR 60 million ACP–EU initiative, which intends to have a structuring effect on the innovation

ecosystems and capabilities of ACP countries, was adopted in 2018.

In the Western Balkans, regional cooperation continued to focus on the connectivity agenda. At the

EU–Western Balkans Summit in May 2018, a substantial connectivity package was delivered

comprising 11 transport projects totalling EUR 190 million in grants and leveraging investments of

EUR 1 billion from international partner financial institutions in the Western Balkans Investment

Framework (WBIF).

In the eastern Neighbourhood, in order to develop the digital economy, the Eastern Partnership

countries have affirmed their commitment to reduce roaming tariffs within a set date. To this end,

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

they have adopted a joint roadmap towards signing a regional roaming agreement among the

Eastern Partners by 2020. In addition, support for policy work in six priority topics (electronic

communications and infrastructure, trust and security, eTrade, digital skills, ICT (information and

communication technology) innovation and start-up ecosystems, and eHealth) is streamlined

through the EU4Digital initiative and the related technical assistance programmes.

Meanwhile, an interesting example of promoting sustainable industrialisation is the Low Carbon

Business Actions in Brazil and Mexico. These have been running since 2015, and aim to decouple

economic growth from CO

emissions, thus addressing global climate change while improving

market opportunities for leading EU businesses in the green-technology sector.

The European Commission continued promoting the integration of developing countries into

sustai a le i dust ial alue hai s th ough the i ple e tatio of the Co petiti e i dust ies a d

i o atio p og a

e CIIP . The s ope

of CIIP, due to complete its current phase in May 2020, is

to support integrated solutions for the design and implementation of public policies and investments

that promote competitiveness and innovation, in terms of both industrial product and process, in

high-potential industries and countries.

In the area of conflict minerals, the European Commission supported the establishment of the

European Partnership for Responsible Minerals. The focus for this partnership is the

introduction/promotion of responsible mining practices in the informal mining sector, which is often

the source of primary raw materials such as cobalt, tantalum, lithium, tungsten, etc.

Blending operations represented another important pillar in support of multimodal transport

corridor development in Africa linked to SDG 9. In 2018, EU contributions of EUR 91 million

leveraged investments amounting to EUR 688 million to interconnect Africa and to enhance access

to rural populations through safe and resilient transport networks.

Cameroon, Gambia, Kenya,

Liberia, Madagascar

and

Uganda

were the main beneficiaries in central, eastern and western Africa

and the Indian Ocean region along respective regional corridors.

In the framework of the EIP, the European Commission established the EFSD to support investments

in Africa and the Neighbourhood. A total of 28 guarantees have been approved in 2018, mobilising

EUR 1.54 billion of the initial guarantee of the EIP, with the expectation that this unlocks EUR 17.5

billion in total investments, covering areas such as access to finance for MSMEs, energy and

connectivity, cities, agriculture and digital. The digital sector has been identified by the European

Commission as a target area for support within the framework of the EIP, focusing on innovation

that

add esses lo al so ial eeds, ﬁ a ial i lusio a d jo

eatio . I

, fou gua a tees e e

approved (EUR 220 million), aiming to increase the use of digital technologies, widen rural access to

broadband and boost investment in innovative start-ups using digital solutions.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

The Ve tures progra

e ith FMO

A guarantee of up to EUR 45 million will promote sustainable development by attracting much-needed

private investment to the ventures sector. It will boost investment for innovative start-ups that use digital

solutions to improve or enable access to products and services for unserved and underserved communities.

It will enable FMO to pursue early-stage direct and indirect investment in:



fintech

–

financial services to improve financial inclusion;

off-grid energy

–

distributed renewable energy to improve access to energy;

agritech

–

agribusiness to improve access to inputs, farming techniques and markets;

venture funds investing in technology-enabled solutions in sectors such as education and

healthcare, mobility and transport, supply chain optimisation, efficient logistics, digital and

business infrastructure and e-commerce.

A othe e a ple of a app o ed p oje t is the Digital t a sfo atio platfo a d oad a d i est e t

programme

, hi h ill i ease the use of digital te h ologies a d ide u al a ess to oad a d i the

EU Neighbourhood, especially outside the main urban centres and in rural, remote and unserved areas.

With EU contributions up to EUR 70 million, the programme offers a guarantee that lowers risks for

pote tial p i ate i esto s a d so akes p oje ts o e att a ti e a ka le to the .

The EIB, EBRD and private co-investors intend to lend directly to companies, public entities, city and

regional authorities and publicly owned telecommunications companies. As a result, the programme will

redress the market failures of a digital sector characterised by high investment costs, strong competition,

market dominance, limited access to finance and pressure on revenues. More specifically, it will address the

failure of dominant incumbent actors to invest in alternative digital infrastructure and improve access to

finance where the economic lifetime of contemporary digital infrastructure exceeds the tenor of loans

typically available in domestic capital markets.

Construction of a new motorway section from Demir Kapija to Smokvica (Corridor X)

Investment in infrastructure is crucial to achieving sustainable development. As a contribution to SDG 9, the

new motorway section between Demir Kapija and Smokvica (28.18 km), part of a pan-European Corridor X

with a total project cost of EUR 227 million (the EU component being EUR 62 million), was opened to traffic in

April 2018.

Context

Transport connectivity

is essential to facilitate movement of goods and people, support cultural exchange and

enhance social and economic development. The project provided the

missing link in the 1 451 km-long pan-

European Corridor X, connecting Salzburg and Thessaloniki.

Objectives

The project aims to

construct a new motorway between Demir Kapija and Smokvica, comprising:

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



a 2+2-lane carriageway of 28.18 km;

2 twin-tube tunnels (both over 1.2 km long) with modern energy-efficient lighting, systems for

ventilation, fire detection and extinguishing, and a backup power supply as well as a SCADA ( )

system for monitoring and traffic management;

6 bridges and 120 culverts;

5 overpasses and 7 underpasses;

2 interchanges and high embankments and deep cuts (>20 m) with more than 8 million m of

earthworks.



Impact

The project has achieved a number of positive results.



A highway for citizens and business was opened in April

2018.

Up to 730 000 vehicles per year will travel faster and

more safely from Skopje to Thessaloniki.

A 63 % decrease in travel time is possible between

Tunnel T1 during construction

Demir Kapija and Smokvica.

All traffic safety standards have been applied, ensuring that the traffic in this section will be safer for

all participants.

EU environmental requirements for construction have been strictly respected, guaranteeing a

reduction in transport emissions.

Videos of the new motorway can be viewed at

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iT-sDy2S95U

and

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETKt9AXU2DM.

Bridge B3 during construction

A sensor network-based SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) system.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.3.10. SDG 10 Reduced inequalities

Introduction

SDG 10 addresses inequalities affected by income, age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion,

economic status or other status. It also addresses inequality among countries and calls for the

facilitation of orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and mobility of people.

The new European Consensus on Development specifically calls on the EU and its Member States to

act to reduce inequality of outcomes and promote equal opportunities for all. The 2030 Agenda

recognises the potential contribution of migrants for inclusive growth and sustainable development

while also acknowledging the challenges. It encourages more comprehensive cooperation on

migration between countries of origin, transit and destination. The Consensus reiterates this

approach, confirming migration as an intrinsic part of EU development policy and cooperation.

Since 2015, the EU has established a comprehensive and balanced approach on migration. In line

with the European Agenda for Migration, this approach is based on genuine partnership and mutual

interest, underpinned by meaningful political dialogue and adapted to the specific context in each

partner country.

Overview and trends

More effort needs to be made to achieve SDG 10 globally and to reduce lingering disparities, as

inequality in all of its forms remains a serious concern globally. Although, between 2010 and 2016, in

60 out of 94 countries with data, the income of the poorest 40 % of the population grew faster than

that of the entire population (SDG target 10.1) (

), income inequality observed in many countries, in

particular among developing countries, remains high. The countries with the highest levels of

income inequality, as measured by the Gini index, are in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa.

EU external action and development cooperation target inequality in partner countries by, for

instance, supporting social protection systems; supporting universal access to quality public services,

including education and health; policies to fight discrimination, such as the rights-based approach;

supporting the design of progressive fiscal policies and domestic revenue mobilisation (DRM).

The EU supports several global and national programmes to strengthen social protection systems,

including social protection floors, and is involved in the Universal Social Protection Initiative (USP

2030) to advance universal social protection policies, with a focus on the poor and the vulnerable. In

2018, the EU supported around 12 partner countries to strengthen their social protection systems,

including in fragile or conflict-affected countries. One of them is

Lesotho,

where the EU has helped

to establish a social protection system that addresses vulnerability and inequality throughout the life

course.

Moreover, in line with the Consensus, which calls on the EU and Member States to mainstream the

reduction of inequality in its development cooperation, the Commission is evaluating opportunities

to better integrate the reduction of inequality in EU development cooperation in future.

https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/files/report/2018/TheSustainableDevelopmentGoalsReport2018-EN.pdf.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

In terms of migration, the number of international migrants increased from 173 million in 2000 to

220 million in 2010 and 258 million in 2017 (

). Global forced displacement figures remain at an all-

time high. During 2018 the EU as a whole received over 0.5 million first-time asylum claims (

). At

the same time, the majority of refugees worldwide continue to be hosted by developing countries.

In 2018 the Commission continued to play an active role in driving forward international dialogue

and policy on migration and development, linking EU political commitments with dialogue, and

concrete and effective implementation in partner countries. Notably, the Commission engaged with

priority countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America to implement the Partnership Framework (

)

under the European Agenda on Migration.

Achieving real progress will only be possible if all stakeholders work together in a coordinated way,

pulling together resources and exploiting all policy tools available. In 2018 the Commission mobilised

substantial funding, in particular through the EUTF for Africa, to improve the management of

migration and to boost socioeconomic development, contributing to the creation of new, decent

jobs in many African partner countries. At the end of 2018, 187 projects worth EUR 3.6 billion had

been approved in the Horn of Africa, North Africa and Sahel and Lake Chad regions.

Case studies

EU–IOM joint initiative for migration protection and reintegration

This initiative launched in December 2016 through the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa. It aims to

strengthen mechanisms along central Mediterranean migration

outes to e su e that ig a ts ights a e

respected and that the migration process is safer and better governed. Starting with 14 countries in the

Sahel and Lake Chad region and Libya, it covered 26 African countries by the end of 2018. Core programme

components include protection and assistance, reintegration, information and awareness-raising, and

migration data and flow monitoring. The initiative had two significant results:



from May 2017 until the end of November 2018, the joint initiative supported the voluntary return

of over 42 600 migrants, mostly from Libya and Niger, but also from Djibouti, Mali and Mauritania;

in the countries of origin, the joint initiative provided assistance upon arrival to over 58 100

migrants whose returns were supported by the EUTF for Africa or other contributors.

https://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/migration/publications/migrationreport/docs/MigrationReport2017_Highlights.

pdf.

http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=migr_asyappctzm&lang=en.

COM(2016) 0385 final, 07.06.2016.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The Research Facility on Inequalities

This facility aims to expand knowledge and understanding of economic and social inequalities, their drivers,

underlying factors and policies, and approaches to reduce them. This is achieved through:



development of global research projects on the drivers and dynamics of economic and social

inequalities in low- and middle-income countries and the most successful policy responses aimed at

addressing them;

country- and city-based research projects to help partner governments design relevant public

policies to address inequalities;

strengthening synergies, collaboration and political alignment among EU Member States and

international partners to fight against inequalities together within the framework of the 2030

Agenda.



As of December 2018, the project has initiated 6 global, 10 country-based and 3 city-based projects,

including projects in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ghana, Mexico, South Africa and Vietnam. Global projects

address themes such as economic inequality, the distributional impact of social protection and inequality,

and taxation.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Enhancing access of children to education and fighting child labour

Egypt,

the EU provides a holistic package of interventions to help combat the root causes of negative

coping strategies, such as child labour and early marriage, and their implications, by supporting enhanced

ut itio , food se u it a d ualit of edu atio . The p oje t E ha i g A ess of Child e to Edu atio

and

Fighti g Child La ou , i ple e ted

the Wo ld Food P og a

e, st e gthe s the apa ities of

governmental stakeholders on education, child protection and information management.

The concept of community education was initiated during the early 1990s, with the goal of improving access

to basic education in underserved areas, especially in rural northern Egypt. Since then, community schools

have contributed to equity in education, school enrolment and attainment, and social inclusion, thus having

the long-term potential to break the poverty cycle among marginalised communities. This project supports

children living in 16 of the most vulnerable governorates in Egypt through the provision of nutritious daily in-

school snacks, reaching about 1.8 million students in over 8 000 community and public schools.

To provide alternative means of income-generation for families, the EU also supports over 50 000 mothers

of community school children through livelihood enhancement activities. Together with local NGOs, the

World Food Programme delivers entrepreneurship and basic business skill trainings for mothers. The

integration of capacity-strengthening and financial inclusion in livelihood support activities supports the

expansion of economic potential in the lives of women, ultimately helping to reduce poverty and empower

them through enhanced mobility, resources, decision-making capacities and networks, while also

contributing to household food security.

The EU supported about 9 000 teachers, enhancing their skills and knowledge through capacity

strengthening on pedagogical skills, nutrition, positive discipline, class management, emergency

preparedness and education through arts and drama. Looking beyond community schools, the project has

also initiated dialogue with different partners on empowering graduates through technical and vocational

training, linking to existing opportunities at the national level.

1.3.11. SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities

Introduction

Urbanisation and the role of cities are increasingly shaping development challenges and

opportunities in developing countries, so much so that local authorities will become key actors in

achieving the majority of the SDGs.

A status report for SDG 11 was prepared for the UN High-Level Political Forum in July 2018 (

). Key

targets include adequate, safe and affordable housing; accessible, safe and sustainable transport

systems for all; inclusive and sustainable urbanisation; reducing the number of people affected by

disasters; reducing the environmental impact of cities; and supporting rural–urban linkage.

Overview and trends

With cities globally contributing to 80 % of GDP, 70 % of global energy consumption and 70 % of

global carbon emissions and nearly 1 billion people living in slums, achieving the SDG 11 targets

https://www.un-ilibrary.org/economic-and-social-development/tracking-progress-towards-inclusive-safe-resilient-and-sustainable-

cities-and-human-settlements_36ff830e-en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

represents a significant challenge. African cities are typically densely populated but have poor urban

mobility; air pollution in many megacities, especially in Asia, has reached toxic levels. These

challenges will become ever more pressing with a rapidly expanding urban population. In the next 30

years, the global urban population is projected to increase by 2 billion, 90 % of which will occur in

Africa and developing Asia.

The renewed focus on cities is also reflected in the Sendai Framework and the New Urban Agenda

(adopted in Quito in 2016). At the European level, the new European Consensus on Development

fully reflects this recognition of the centrality of urbanisation, not only in terms of demographics but

also as a process underpinning multiple aspects of global development.

In 2018, the Commission published a staff working document on cities and local authorities in

development cooperation. The subsequent Council conclusions underpinned the importance of

addressing the challenges of rapid urbanisation, as well as the opportunities presented by well-

planned urbanisation.

The EU has put a number of instruments in place to support cities and sustainable urban

development.

Du i g

, th ough the EIP Sustai a le ities i do , o k p ogressed

on three programmes to

mobilise additional finance for sustainable urban developments.

A new approach within the local authority component of the Annual Action Plan 2018 was proposed.

The programme aims to support local authority contributions to sustainable urban development.

Following a call for submissions in October 2018, 258 concept notes were received, 169 were

evaluated and the best 43 proposals have been invited to submit a full proposal.

The three-

ea I te atio al u a

oope atio p ogramme

was adopted by the European

Commission as part of the Partnership Instrument Annual Action Programme 2015 with a total

budget of EUR 20.2 million. In 2018, the programme received an additional EUR 10 million and an

extension to the end of 2020. The overall objective of the programme is to strengthen EU climate

and urban diplomacy and leadership in the context of the New Urban Agenda and the Paris

Agreement.

A number of thematic facilities targeting specific urban issues have been put in place (slum

upgrading, urban resilience, climate change). A tendency towards more national and regional

programmes targeting urban development can be observed.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

Participatory Slum Upgrading Programme (PSUP)

The PSUP is a joint effort of the ACP countries, the European Commission and UN-Habitat. To date, the

programme has reached out to 35 ACP countries and 160 cities, and it has provided the necessary enabling

framework for improving the lives of at least 2 million slum dwellers. ACP Member States have joined the

programme to address the challenge of slums and improve living standards of the urban poor by adopting

the p og a

e s i teg ated st ategies fo s ste i ha ge a d to e efit f o te h i al e ha ges o the

achievements made in the different regions.

I p a ti al te s, PSUP puts slu s o the u a

aps a d fa ilitates dialogue at lo al, atio al a d

regional levels. This is necessary for a change in mindset, which is key for positive policy changes. The

initiation of urban strategic planning, increased budget allocations and the formation of multi-stakeholder

partnerships for the sustainable improvement of the living conditions of slum dwellers are some positive

results of the PSUP.

The Covenant of Mayors in sub-Saharan Africa

The CoM SSA helps local authorities and cities ensure access to energy and climate change mitigation and

adaptation. By the end of 2018, the CoM SSA reached close to 140 signatory cities from 34 countries; 13

cities received grants for local climate and energy planning and pilot projects. In addition, at least 12 cities

received support through the delegation agreement with EU Member State organisations.

In 2018 the European Commission also engaged with eastern and southern EU neighbours, North America

and South America and south and east Asia to mobilise climate and energy initiatives. Specifically, it helps

cities and local governments implement initiatives through capacity building and validation of their energy

and action plans, with support from the Joint Research Centre and through in-kind contributions to the

Global Covenant Secretariat.

1.3.12. SDG 12 Responsible consumption and production

Introduction

While the EU is making significant progress towards sustainable consumption and production (SCP)

in Europe, it also actively promotes SCP practices in third countries through external action.

Promoting SCP practices at the global level is in line with expectations from a growing number of

citizens who want to know that the goods and services they buy have been produced responsibly,

respecting the environment and offering decent employment to local workers.

Overview and trends

The 2018 report of the UN Secretary-General on progress towards the SDGs indicates that

de oupli g e o o i g o th f o esou e use has ee

challe

gi g a d that do esti

ate ial

consumption in absolute terms is growing globally, with consequences in terms of both resource

p essu es a d asso iated e i o e tal i pa ts .

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EU supports action on SCP by third countries through three main work streams:



enabling policy frameworks for SCP by promoting inclusive policymaking;

promoting private sector involvement by engaging with different stages in the value chain;

facilitating investments in SCP practices through measures such as risk-sharing mechanisms.

This approach is delivering results: an evaluation of EU international cooperation on SCP published in

2018 (

) indicated that, through the funding of more than

g ee usi ess p oje ts u de the

SWITCH to Green regional programmes in Asia, Africa and the Mediterranean (corresponding to

commitments above EUR 250 million since 2008), the EU has helped to improve practices in

approximately 90 000 MSMEs and has sustained approximately 350 000 jobs.

The promotion of SCP practices is embedded in all relevant EU external action financing instruments,

including: the Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI), which finances initiatives such as

SWITCH; the European Development Fund (EDF), which finances diverse actions promoting

sustainable value chains; and the Partnership Instrument, which supports similar initiatives while

also benefiting EU companies, for example by creating a level playing field requiring adequate

environmental, social and governance standards for all business operators.

To help make the case for the necessary transformation of world economies, the EU also supported

glo al a tio o SCP a d esou e effi ie

o t i uti g to the UN o k o g ee fi a e fo

SDGs and to the development of indicators to monitor progress on green economy transformation.

Support includes the UN International Resource Panel, a science–policy interface providing an

authoritative assessment of sustainable resource management. The Resource Panel issued two new

reports in 2018 (

https://europa.eu/capacity4dev/public-environment-climate/documents/scp-evaluation-final-report-full-package-publications.

https://www.resourcepanel.org/reports/weight-cities

and

https://resourcepanel.org/reports/re-defining-value-manufacturing-

revolution.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

SWITCH Africa Green Hanisa e-waste model project

Context

Ghana generates over 150 000 tonnes of waste from

electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) annually,

largely as a result of imports. Sites like Agbogbloshie

(a central point for the crude dismantling of WEEE in

Accra) are among the most toxic places on earth

according to the WHO. The retrieval of precious metal

components from WEEE presents enormous

environmental challenges due to pollution from the burning of waste and exposure to lead, mercury and

phosphorus. To help address these challenges, the EU provided a grant of EUR 233 675 through the SWITCH

Africa Green Programme to the Ghana Environmental Protection Agency.

Objectives

The project aims to:



Impact

develop a sustainable e-waste management system;

establish a structured approach to e-waste education and publicity;

provide a disposal solution for institutions, businesses and individuals.

The project has had the following outcomes:



creation of a formal e-waste collection network;

private sector construction of recycling plants and refurbishment centres;

prospective domestic and international markets identified for resale of e-waste components;

increase in proper disposal of toxic e-waste components, such as mercury, lead, cadmium, etc.;

training of local youth in the safe handling of e-waste that can be used to earn a living;

SME business opportunities facilitated through awareness and training activities.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Demand-side management of water use in MSMEs in Uganda

Context

Available renewable water resources in Uganda have been reduced by more than one third in the last 30

years, leading to a high dependency ratio from upstream countries (69 % in 2013). The manufacturing sector

lacks awareness of the importance of this situation. Demand-side management of water use implements

techniques and practices to improve efficiency. To help address these challenges, the EU contributed a grant

of EUR 185 000 through the SWITCH Africa Green Programme to the Ministry of Water and Environment.

Objectives

The programme has the following aims:



Impact

to enhance water-use efficiency and increase productivity in MSMEs;

to create awareness about water conservation among MSMEs;

to facilitate the adoption and optimisation of efficient water-use techniques and practices.

The following outcomes have been achieved:



annual volume of 337 118 m of fresh water saved;

annual raw material savings of USD 865 342 and annual water savings of USD 548 939;

USD 577 220 of private sector investments in water efficiency technologies and practices.

A recovery tank installed to recover cooling water and a meter installed to measure recovered water

1.3.13. SDG 13 Climate action

Introduction

Climate change is one of the top priorities at the global level for the EU, confirmed by the increasing

amount of financial resources allocated to this challenge. In December 2018, the 24th Conference of

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change adopted the Paris rulebook,

which will allow operationalisation of the Paris agreement by all parties from 2020. The framework

establishes common rules to which developed and developing countries must adhere in order to

track progress as regards their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and their adaptation

efforts. All parties to the Paris Agreement submitted their NDCs, indicating their expected input to

the global effort to reduce emissions. NDCs may also include strategies for adaptation to climate

change impacts and to reduce climate-related risks, including through land restoration and

sustainable management and other nature-based solutions.

Overview and trends

The EU supports climate change action through both dedicated (thematic) actions and through

mainstreaming of climate change into other sectors.

The Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+) EU initiative has continued to support mitigation-

spe ifi a tio s i Côte d I oi e a d Nige ia , a d eight othe p oje ts e e lau hed in

2018. They

are mainly focused on adaptation in the most vulnerable countries

–

that is, small island developing

states (SIDS) and the LDCs (

In December 2018 the EU joined the InsuResilience Global Partnership as a core member. Launched

in 2017 as a joint G7, G20 and V20 (

) initiative, this aims to strengthen the resilience of developing

countries to natural disasters and complement ongoing efforts to avert, minimise and address

climate risks. Other regional actions on land restoration and sustainable use (e.g. the Great Green

Wall initiative and REDD+ (

) actions) contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts

worldwide.

As the delivery of EU climate objectives requires significant investment, the EU agreed that at least

20 % of the EU budget in 2014–2020 should be climate related. The EU is broadly on track towards

the 20 % target, but more needs to be done; although the financial contributions to climate action

increased (from 10.3 % in 2014 to 26.8 % in 2017), based on preliminary data, the 2018

contributions are likely to have decreased. Integrating climate change is not just a matter of hitting a

target, but being coherent and consistent over the long term.

The importance of mainstreaming climate change becomes evident by the fact that most of the

financial contributions to climate action come from non-thematic actions (approximately 55 % of the

contributions to climate action in the 2014–2017 period were the result of mainstreaming in the

agriculture/food security and energy sectors). When it comes to mainstreaming of climate change,

actions are screened to identify opportunities to contribute to climate change mitigation and

adaptation, but also to ensure that actions themselves are resilient to climate change (e.g.

engineering design of infrastructure).

The EU also supports climate action through the EU Partnership Instrument, which promotes policy

cooperation with countries of strategic interest to the EU. Among other things, it aims to bolster EU

relations with countries that are

o lo ge eligi le fo ilate al de elop e t aid. The St ategi

The projects were based in Cambodia, Djibouti, Maldives, Myanmar, Senegal and three Caribbean countries: Cuba, Dominican Republic

and Trinidad and Tobago.

The V20 Group represents a group of 20 countries whose economies are systemically vulnerable to climate change and extreme events.

REDD+ is edu i g e issio s f o defo estatio a d fo est deg adatio a d the ole of o se atio , sustai a le a age e t of

fo ests a d e ha e e t of fo est a o sto ks i de elopi g ou t ies .

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

pa t e ships fo the i ple e tatio of the Pa is Ag ee e t SPIPA p oje t, fu ded i pa t

the

Partnership Instrument, was initiated to encourage major economies to implement the Paris

Agreement by facilitating the translation of political commitment into concrete interventions. SPIPA

contributed to the South Africa National Talanoa Dialogue in August 2018, which aims to bring

together the different levels of government and various stakeholders to align on national climate

action across South Africa by providing a forum in which to review the Paris rulebook.

The EU Cli ate p og a

e suppo ts the de elop e t a d i ple e tatio of li ate-related

policies by the Eastern Partnership countries, hence contributing to their low-emission and climate-

resilient development and their commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change.

The EU participated in the Adaptation Futures Conference in Cape Town in mid-June 2018 to raise

awareness of EU actions on climate change adaptation in Africa.

Efforts to reduce deforestation and land degradation, to combat loss of biodiversity and to reduce

pollution are also key in fighting climate change. Forests have the capacity to absorb half of the

o ld s CO

emissions, but the degradation of forests accounts for 20 % of emissions. This is why the

EU supports its partner countries in transforming their economies with more sustainable pathways.

Cambodia: Happier pig farmers in a cleaner environment

Cambodia is extremely vulnerable to climate change. It needs

to implement its development and climate change policies

while promoting inclusive and green growth. Since 2016 the

EU-funded GCCA+ has supported the National Biodigester

Programme (NBP) to promote the use of medium-scale

biodigesters (10–20 kW) in pig farms. Successful pilots are now

being disseminated and the NBP is looking for dedicated

financing products to encourage the use of this technology

nationwide.

The main results are as follows:



More than 20 000 biodigesters have been installed for household use.

A network of financiers, construction companies, masons, bio-slurry specialists and aftercare

te h i ia s has ee esta lished i

of Ca odia s p o i es.

One pig farm was able to reduce its electricity bill by 40–50 %.

Pilot farmers reduced their emissions of CO

e by 600 tonnes and used the biodigester slurry as a

natural fertiliser for their farming activities.

Case studies

Malawi: Farmer Field Schools empower farmers to fight climate change

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Malawi is also vulnerable to climate change, and its

farmers are among the most exposed. The EU-

funded Farm Field Schools complement traditional

agricultural advisory services by helping farmers

learn how to analyse the problems they face and

adopt sustainable land management techniques.

The main results are:



increased local capacity to design and

implement climate-resilient development

plans;

ette adaptatio of ul e a le o

u ities p a ti es to li ate a ia ilit a d ha ge;



an approach that builds capacity and effectively empowers communities and households.

The Covenant of Mayors East

Context

The

EU s Co e a t of Ma o s i itiati e helps u i ipalities i A e ia, Aze aija , Bela us, Geo gia,

Moldova and Ukraine implement their energy and climate commitments. By providing grants intended for

municipal projects, the EU contributes to their overall target to cut CO

emissions by 30 % by 2030, in turn

helping municipalities across the region implement the Paris Agreement.

Objective

The objective is to help municipalities in the Eastern Partnership countries develop and implement

sustainable energy and climate action plans. These plans are the key local energy and climate policy

documents that set out how each municipality will reach its CO

reduction target and increase resilience to

the impacts of climate change.

Impact

Almost 400 municipalities in the Eastern Partnership region have signed up to the Covenant of Mayors.

1.3.14. SDG 14 Life below water

Introduction

Oceans are an important component of the 2030 Agenda and SDG 14. Despite the pledges made in

Our Ocean conferences, however, global progress on addressing threats

–

such as pollution and

eutrophication, overfishing and destruction of habitats

–

has been slow. Climate change is further

increasing the pressure on oceans and coastal areas, provoking coral bleaching and affecting

biodiversity, fish reproduction and migration as well as global weather patterns and sea levels.

Climate change will have a considerable impact on coastal communities in tropical areas.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Overview and trends

As i itiated the EU s Joi t Co

u i atio o I te atio al O ean

Governance (2016), EU external

action in realising SDG 14 is growing in importance, by, for example: promoting sustainable fisheries

governance, protecting marine biodiversity and reducing pollution.

In Cambodia, the EU agreed on its first-ever budget support contract in the fisheries sector, the

Captu e fishe ies CaPFish p og a

e, hi h suppo ts the i ple e tatio of efo s i fishe ies

management and the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Planned to start

in 2019, the contract focuses on: i) conservation, management and compliance with laws and

regulations; ii) fish/food safety; iii) support to fishing communities; and iv) institutional capacity.

Together with the Commission of the Indian Ocean, the EU has signed the new Ecofish programme

(EUR 28 million) to promote sustainable management and development of fisheries. In particular,

Ecofish strengthens regional capacity to prevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing in the African part

of the Indian Ocean region and support concrete fisheries management and governance initiatives in

small-scale marine and inland fisheries.

The stud La ge tha tige s: I puts fo a st ategi app oa h to iodi e sit o se atio i Asia

was launched in May 2018. It supports a strategic approach to halting environmental degradation

and biodiversity loss in Asia and includes a regional section on the marine ecosystem with a

particular focus on the Coral Triangle. The EU also committed EUR 10 million to support integrated

seascape management in the Coral Triangle, addressing the expansion, management and

reinforcement of the Marine Protected Areas network, sustainable small-scale fisheries and

ecosystem management.

In 2018, the EU, together with the Secretariat of the ACP countries, agreed a new support

programme for ACP SIDS and coastal countries (EUR 35 million). This programme will contribute to

the implementation of the SAMOA Pathway (SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action) by supporting

efforts to protect, manage and use marine and coastal biodiversity at regional, national and local

levels, through targeted capacity building, strengthening knowledge-based decision-making,

supporting grass-roots pilot projects and enhancing intra- and interregional cooperation for

environmental sustainability. The programme will also provide a platform for sensitising all relevant

stakeholders and promoting dialogue on issues relevant to the development of SIDS and coastal

countries. The programme includes a pillar on ocean-related activities (EUR 9.2 million), designed to

support the implementation of Regional Seas Conventions by promoting networks of Marine

Protected Areas resilient to climate change and by tackling pollution of the marine environment.

In the Mediterranean region, the programme GreenMed III (EUR 48 million) was adopted in 2018 to

promote resource efficiency and SCP, notably through depollution of the Mediterranean Sea and

reduction of water stress. The EU will also continue supporting the development of Marine

Protected Areas and the achieve

e t of the good e i o e tal status of the Medite a ea Sea.

Through the Partnership Instrument, the EU is supporting a dedicated project (EUR 9 million) to

address marine litter in hot-spot countries and rivers in east and south-east Asia. The EU will also

provide EUR 17 million to help Pacific countries build waste management programmes and address

issues relating to health and well-being, marine litter and biodiversity conservation.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EU strives to support the work of Regional Seas Conventions. For example, support for

implementation of the ecosystem approach in the Mediterranean Sea has some important potential

ramifications for replication in other regions.

The EU is also very active on the issue of marine litter, including in discussions on a future global

programme of action to protect the marine environment against land-based sources of pollution.

Case study

Improved regional fisheries governance in West Africa (Pescao)

Context

Fisheries, as typically managed in 2018, represent a threat to food security, livelihoods and marine

biodiversity. Climate change is likely to make this situation worse. There are three main problems:



poor management of fish stocks;

widespread IUU fishing;

lack of cooperation between regional institutions and national authorities.

Objectives

Pescao seeks to boost the contribution of fisheries resources to sustainable development, food security and

poverty alleviation in West Africa. The programme has three components:



supporting the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) to develop a framework for

regional fisheries priorities and encourage cooperation between sub-regional organisations and

development partners;

building the capacity of national and regional authorities to deter IUU fishing;

promoting coordinated approaches to shared fisheries management.



Impact

The Sub-Regional Fisheries Commission (SRFC) organised two joint campaigns at sea in 2018 in the exclusive

economic zones (EEZs) of Gambia, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Senegal and Sierra Leone.

The SRFC organised and coordinated the Mory Gningue (October) and Badjigui Kouate (December) joint

operations. Participating coastal states provided patrol vessels and fisheries inspectors. To support

patrolling, SRFC chartered the Senegalese Navy vessel

Fouladou.

These operations were organised in

cooperation with the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA). To support the operation, the SRFC

deployed two EFCA inspectors: in the coordination centre and on board one of the fishing patrol vessels.

The EFCA provided integrated maritime services and Copernicus imagery to assist enforcement authorities

in detecting possible unwanted activities. In total, 89 fishing vessels were inspected and 9 were ordered

back to port following serious violations (illegal fishing gear, non-compliant meshing, non-declaration of

at hes, et . . Whe e appli a le, hea fi es a e i posed

oastal states autho ities. Fo e a ple,

Guinea imposed a EUR 100 000 fine on a Chinese vessel accused of using illegal fishing equipment in its EEZ.

Testimonies

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

SRFC coordinator Commander Babacar Ba: Thanks to Pescao and EU support, the SRFC and EFCA are joining

forces to pinpoint and sanction IUU fishing vessels that are depleting fish resources in West Africa. Joint

operations combined with on-the-spot training will make all the difference!

EFCA Project Officer for Pescao, Sergio Amorim: I am proud to be part of the joint control operations

organised by the Sub-Regional Fisheries Commission, which has brought West African countries together to

share information and resources to combat illegal fishing. The joint control operations, organised under the

Pescao project, show that fishing activities can be monitored to ensure compliance with regional and

national fisheries regulations. The joint control operations are effective instruments in the fight against IUU

fishing, and they can make a very important contribution in delivering more sustainable fisheries.

Andrea Patalano, EFCA fisheries control expert deployed on the

Fouladou

patrol vessel during a 2018 joint

control surveillance operation: I am pleased to have taken part in one of the joint control operations

organised by the SRFC. My deployment helped identify potential areas for European Union operational and

training activities as part of the Pescao project. The collaborative nature of the joint surveillance operations

also provides an excellent platform for the EFCA and SRFC countries to exchange best practices.

1.3.15. SDG 15 Life on land

Introduction

In developing countries the vast majority of terrestrial ecosystems and their biodiversity continue to

deg ade at ala i g ates, affe ti g people s li elihoods a d ell-being

as well as socioeconomic

development (

). This results in habitat loss, a decrease in quantity and quality of fresh water,

further land erosion and degradation, more pollution and higher emissions of greenhouse gases.

Every year in developing countries, 13 million hectares of forests are lost, mostly to agriculture

expansion and forest exploitation, including illegal logging. Forests are home to more than 80 % of

all terrestrial species and around 1.6 billion people depend on them for their livelihoods.

Deforestation, land and forest degradation and changes in land use amount to one quarter of global

emissions (

) and, as of December 2018, trends are clearly incompatible with the aim of restricting

increases in global temperature to below 1.5 °C by 2050.

Three quarters of the people living in poverty are directly affected by land degradation. Every year,

12 million hectares of productive soil are lost from desertification and drought alone. Land

degradation forces farmers to migrate, with pastoralists looking elsewhere for suitable land.

Tensions over land and other natural resources result in instability and conflict.

The world is on course for its sixth mass extinction of species, the first one caused by humankind,

having lost 60 % of the main assessed global populations of fish, birds, mammals, amphibians and

reptiles between 1970 and 2014 (

). Illicit poaching and trafficking of wildlife continue to thwart

conservation efforts, and wildlife and forest crime is now the fourth-largest form of criminal activity

globally. Addressing all drivers of wildlife and forest crime requires the scaling-up and

mainstreaming of conservation and anti-trafficking actions.

2018 report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services.

https://repository.uneca.org/handle/10855/22514.

https://www.wwf.ch/sites/default/files/doc-2018-10/LPR2018_Full%20Report%20Pages_22.10.2018_0.pdf.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Overview and trends

The new European Consensus on Development demands that the EU and its Member States support

the sustainable management and use of natural resources, including forests, oceans, coastal areas

and river basins. It highlights the need to promote agriculture and food systems that contribute to

the conservation and sustainable use of ecosystems and natural resources and to addressing climate

change. The main global policies in this domain are the EU Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and

Trade (FLEGT) Action Plan to tackle illegal logging and its associated trade, the EU Action Plan against

Wildlife Trafficking and the EU commitments towards the Paris Agreement on climate change.

In 2018, the Work Plan 2018–2022 for the implementation of the FLEGT Action Plan was elaborated

jointly with EU Member States. The EU initialised FLEGT Voluntary Partnership Agreements with

Honduras and Guyana. Moreover, the EU has continued to support FLEGT processes in 24 countries

with a view to improving sustainable forest management, enhancing legality systems, building

capacity of national and local authorities, strengthening CSOs (especially those representing

indigenous people) and enhancing private sector compliance with national regulations.

The year 2018 has also been critical for the EU in combating deforestation. The EU supported the

organisation of the international conference on Halting Deforestation and Increasing Forest Area in

Rome in February 2018. The objective was to improve understanding of the roles and contributions

of forestry-related sectors in promoting forest-smart activities to halt deforestation and expand

forest areas, and identify lessons learned from existing initiatives. The European Commission also

strengthened its commitment in the Central African Forest Initiative, which aims to preserve the

value of forests by implementing low-emissions development investment frameworks that include

national policy reforms and measures addressing drivers of deforestation and forest degradation. In

addition, a new phase of the EU REDD+ Facility (2018–2022) was launched to help signatory

countries reduce greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in line with

NDCs.

Th ee ea s afte the La ge tha elepha ts epo t, hi h p o ided the st ategi app oa h fo

ildlife o se atio i Af i a, the Eu opea Co

issio has deli e ed the stud La ge tha tige s .

The epo t highlights Asia s i

e se atu al apital a d p o ides i fo atio a d a al sis i

support of a strategic approach to halting environmental degradation and biodiversity loss in the

region. As its title suggests, the problem is far greater than survival of a single iconic species, like the

tiger; vanishing species are just a part of complex natural ecosystems that benefit humanity. Many

such systems, if lost, are irreplaceable. The report was co-authored by more than 200 scientists,

practitioners and decision makers and is now used as a basis for further programming of

biodiversity-related investments.

In 2018, support for the EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking was significant (EUR 43.5 million),

with the signing of 10 contracts on forests and wildlife crime. In particular, Interpol and the United

Nations Office on Drugs and Crime signed two contracts for implementing the strategic action plan

of the International Consortium for Combating Wildlife Crime. It will consist of capacity-building

actions with the police, justice and customs services of countries in Africa, Asia and South America.

On the other hand, CSOs

–

through a series of targeted contracts

–

will improve law enforcement on

the ground in the pan-Amazon, Congo Basin, East Africa, Liberia and Mekong Basin regions.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EU also actively supported the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, including for

the engagement of developing countries in the 14th COP in Egypt in November 2018. This

conference also enabled decisive progress for the negotiations of a post-2020 global biodiversity

framework, with the expected adoption of a new Deal for Nature at the 15th COP in Beijing in 2020.

Case studies

Supporting sustainable management of tree species through the United Nations Environment Programme

and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

Context

The drivers for loss of species are unsustainable production and consumption, which deplete all types of

ecosystems of species and habitats. The demand for scarce and luxurious tree products threatens the

survival of many species.

Dalbergia spp.

(rosewood), for example, is in such high demand globally that 28 of

86 species are now listed as endangered due to illegal harvesting. To reverse biodiversity loss, sustainable

management practices must be fostered so that local populations and developing countries, which directly

depend on natural resources, derive fair and long-term benefits from their sustainable use and trade.

Objective

The objective is to support implementation of conservation, management and trade regulations to curb the

trend towards extinction of an increasing number of valuable tree species in biodiversity-rich countries. As

of December 2018, more than 600 of the most economically valuable tree species in international trade are

regulated by CITES. The project supports producing countries complying with its regulatory framework by

producing non-detriment findings, a requirement for a CITES export permit.

Impact

The project has achieved a number of results:



improved technical and technological capacity for development of non-detriment findings,

including forest inventory, distributional mapping and technical guidance for species-specific

management plans;

improved silvicultural and ecological knowledge for management of CITES-listed tree species;

successful capacity building for timber identification and effective information and tracking

systems, sustainable management of, and trade in, selected tree species;

identification tools for CITES-listed tree species improved and developed using IT applications and

other training support to identify and follow CITES-listed tree species products;

market studies produced and forest product information systems in place;

long-term support for sustainable forest and tree management in key states.



Saving the sea turtles of Anguilla: Combining community action with scientific evidence to drive legislative

change

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Context

A guilla s tu tles el o the isla d s o al eefs, seag ass eds, ea hes a d oastal egetatio to suppo t

their foraging and nesting behaviour. For Anguilla, whose main tourism draw is its beaches, protecting the

integrity of this habitat for sea turtles also means protecting the most significant indirect contributor to the

isla d s GDP. The A guilla go e

e t esta lished a fi e-year

moratorium on sea turtle harvesting in 1995,

which has since been extended to 2020, yet the major problem is that direct evidence about changes in sea

turtle populations in the Caribbean remains limited.

Objectives

The overall objective of this project is to address the current lack of vital data about sea turtles in order to

inform management and conservation on and around Anguilla. The specific objectives are to train Anguillans

on the biology and conservation of sea turtles, tracking and monitoring sea turtles and marine spatial

planning and data analysis. It will also develop a certification programme for sea turtle ecotour guides and

certify at least 20 individuals, including local people, as sea turtle ecotour guides.

Impact

The project has achieved a number of results.



The areas and population status of foraging sea turtles and breeding sea turtles were identified and

assessed.

Potential threats to sea turtle populations were identified and possible mitigation strategies

formulated.

A framework and supporting structures for guiding sea turtle conservation action and recovery

were established.

Increased technical expertise on sea turtle conservation and research was honed within Anguilla.

National and international awareness and support for sea turtle and coastal conservation was

increased.

1.3.16. SDG 16 Peace, justice and strong institutions

Introduction

In 2018, the EU reaffirmed its unconditional support for implementation of SDG 16 worldwide

through a variety of interventions funded under thematic and geographic EU external financing

instruments.

Overview and trends

Democracy, human rights and good governance

Fi e p oje ts ai i g to st e gthe the apa ities of politi al pa ties i te s of o e s

participation, multiparty systems, inter-party dialogue and fair and transparent political party

financing began implementation in 10 countries in 2018.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The Technical Assistance Facility, Media4Democracy, continued to support the EU delegations in

thei effo ts to p o ote f eedo of e p essio a d de eloped Suppo ti g a ess to i fo atio : A

practical guide

fo EU delegatio s .

The EU co-financed capacity building to strengthen international tax governance and facilitated the

pa ti ipatio of de elopi g ou t e pe ts i i te atio al ta fo u s su h as the UN s Co

ittee

of Experts on Taxation. In parallel, the EU initiated screening (and in some cases listing) of tax

jurisdictions worldwide with the objective of improving international tax governance.

Under the local authorities component of the

Civil society organisations and local authorities

(CSO–

LA) programme, 72 contracts were signed to strengthen local authorities as partners in governance

and development through active democratic participation, the promotion of human rights, the

participation of women and youth in the public sphere and multilevel accountability. The Integrated

Diagnostic Decentralization Framework was applied in five pilot countries, and modules on

decentralisation, urban and rural development were created as a preliminary step for the

development of a country-level roadmap on local authorities.

In 2018, efforts were redoubled to improve the capacities of several African countries on civil

registration and vital statistical systems.

The EU continued to promote the rule of law, access to justice and the strengthening of capacities of

justice institutions in several countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. Furthermore,

several projects focused on ending all forms of violence, trafficking and sexual exploitation of

children.

The principles of good governance, democracy, rule of law and human rights included under SDG 16

a e ke to the ENP s o je ti e of sta ilisatio . I

, se e al e i itiati es to i ple e t efo s

in these areas were launched in eastern and southern Neighbourhood countries, to improve

governance and judicial independence, and deepen democracy and the respect of rule of law,

including in the context of security reforms and border management.

In line with the new Western Balkan Strategy

– A edi le e la ge e t pe spe ti e fo a e ha ed

EU engage

e t ith the Weste Balka s

(

)

–

measures were rolled out to foster judicial

independence and efficiency, empower institutions contributing to societal change and encourage

regional cooperation in the region.

Moreover, the European Commission has continued to enhance linkage between public

administration reform (PAR) efforts and inclusive and evidence-based law and policymaking

processes at sector level, and it has supported the building of effective country systems for

monitoring, reporting and evaluating public policy performance in the Enlargement and European

Neighbourhood regions. In the European Neighbourhood regions, the Commission renewed its

support for the OECD Support for improvement in governance and management (SIGMA)

programme to facilitate more sustainable governance and PAR.

https://eeas.europa.eu/regions/western-balkans/39711/credible-enlargement-perspective-and-enhanced-eu-engagement-western-

balkans_en.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Peace, fragility and resilience

During 2018, the European Commission continued to focus on the role of development cooperation

in preventing, managing and helping to resolve conflicts and crises, averting humanitarian needs and

building lasting peace and good governance. In particular, the Commission launched the strategic

evaluation of conflict prevention and peacebuilding for the period 2013–2017, which, once finalised,

in addition to providing an independent assessment of EU support, will identify key lessons and

produce recommendations on EU engagement in the field. The Commission also launched a

thematic evaluation of mediation activities financed under the IcSP and concluded the evaluation on

mine action under the IcSP, launched in 2017, which provided valuable insights for future

engagement.

Security and stability

The implementation of the 2016 Security Sector Reform (SSR) Strategic Framework continued to

make positive changes in the way EU institutions support the security sector in third countries, with

the overarching goal of better securing the Union, promoting peace and EU values worldwide and

contributing directly to SDG

of the

Age da. I

, t o SSR oo di atio

at i es e e

finalised in Georgia and Mali with the effective engagement of EU Member States present in the

field (

The EU, under the IcSP, has also supported peaceful political transitions, such as the Colombian

peace process and those in Gambia and Kenya. Several activities in Afghanistan, Libya, Niger and

Somalia directly complemented the work of CSDP missions.

Prevention and countering of violent extremism (P-CVE) has become a key component of EU

counterterrorism policy. A number of related specific actions were launched around the world under

the Strengthening resilience to violent extremism (STRIVE) programme to facilitate innovative P-CVE

projects in collaboration with local communities and strengthen conditions conducive to

development and resilience towards violent extremism (

Nuclear safety

The EU flagship environmental programme for Central Asia to remediate former uranium legacy

sites is e te i g its i ple e tatio phase. Du i g the o t i uto s o fe e e held i Lo do o

8 November 2018, the EU pledged EUR 10 million in support.

Case studies

Justice for victims of sexual crime

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, support through IcSP for justice actors, including lawyers and local

NGOs, led to a landmark decision on 26 July 2018 when the High Military Court convicted for crimes against

The matrices developed under the IcSP-financed Security Sector Governance Facility provide a detailed overview of the level of

engagement as of 31.12.2018 and indicate a short- to mid-term vision of future EU support for SSR.

This is in line with the UN Secretary-Ge

e al s

Pla of A tio to P e e t Viole t E t e ism,

which recognises the need for a

practical and comprehensive approach to addressing the drivers of violent extremism, wherever they manifest themselves.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

humanity a member of the Provincial Assembly of South Kivu and the members of his militia for the kidnap

and rape of 39 children from Kavumu ( ).

The EU Security Sector Governance Facility

The EU Security Sector Governance Facility is a three-year Technical Assistance Facility, launched in 2018

under the IcSP, whose objective is to provide technical expertise globally to ensure that standards and

principles like legitimacy, good governance, sustainability, ownership and holistic approaches remain central

to SSR processes and EU support. The facility was used in 2018 to support the SSR processes in Gambia and

Mali, among other things.

EU4Citizens: Deepening democracy in Armenia

As a response to large-scale peaceful protests by Armenian citizens and a government change in May 2018,

this new action supports the Armenian reform agenda based on democracy, transparency and accountability

to itize s. The fi st o po e t, o I eased t ust i go e

e t , suppo ts the edi ilit a d

transparency of national elections, as well as human rights protection and promotion mechanisms and Open

Go e

e t I itiati es. A se o d o po e t o Deepe i g i i e gage e t i A e ia fo used o

expanding the understanding of participatory democracy and of tools to engage Armenians as active

citizens, at national and local levels.

https://www.justiceinfo.net/en/tribunals/national-tribunals/38157-kavumu-trial-high-military-court-confirms-all-condemnations.html.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The Regional Housing Programme (RHP) in the Western Balkans

Reconciliation is crucial to anchor peace firmly and to ensure lasting stability and prosperity in the region. In

line with the Western Balkans Strategy, the EU supports good solutions to difficult issues through regional

cooperation and rebuilding good neighbourly relations.

In this context, the RHP will provide housing to more than 34 000 vulnerable people in

Bosnia and

Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro

and

Serbia.

It is an excellent example of EU commitment to addressing

the o se ue es of the o fli ts i the

s. The p og a

e ha ges people s li es. People ho ha e

lived for 20 years in poor and often dire conditions now enjoy decent homes and can reintegrate into their

former communities or build new lives elsewhere.

To support this, in 2018 the EU contributed an additional EUR 40 million to the RHP. This brings the total

support for the RHP to EUR 287 million, the EU being the largest contributor with EUR 234 million or over

80 % of all contributions.

By the end of 2018, the RHP has already provided 12 000 people in need with quality, durable homes. It has

also given additional assistance to improve the lives of these rehoused people, including making sure they

can access services (health, education, etc.) and benefit from rights (pensions, allowances, documentation,

etc.). In addition, the programme has supported more than 30 000 jobs and given 1 000 contracts to local

companies. Moreover, it has improved the skills of workers and collaborated with local businesses and

administrations to deliver better services.

Family house built with the support of the RHP, allowing an internally displaced family to return

to their native village in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In view of political developments, the Commission has worked with and further supported both civil society

and independent media to counter the risks of shrinking space and to strengthen accountability and

transparency in the region. The Civil Society Facility continued providing support to around 45 regional

networks of CSOs, covering almost all the main sectors of the EU

acquis communautaire.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

1.3.17. SDG 17 Partnerships for the goals

Introduction

Successful sustainable development requires partnerships between governments, the private sector

and civil society. For the EU and its Member States, work at country and global level is only

deliverable if the means of implementation with multi-stakeholder partnerships is strengthened at

all levels, as highlighted in the new European Consensus on Development.

Overview and trends

To strengthen the financial capacities of partner countries, EU support for DRM includes tax policy

reform, support for tax administrations and international cooperation on tax matters in

collaboration with institutions such as the IMF, the OECD and the World Bank. Nevertheless,

ilate al oope atio

ith pa t e ou t ies e ai s the EU s p i a

ha el, espe iall

ith

regard to budget support.

In collaboration with the IMF, 54 Tax Administration Diagnostic Tool (TADAT) evaluations were

completed between 2016 and 2018. These assessments triggered the preparation of new tax

reforms in partner countries, such as Morocco and Tunisia, and delivered excellent results in terms

of revenue collection in countries like Albania, Cambodia (where, for instance, EU cooperation

helped increase domestic revenues from 15.2 % of GDP in 2014 to 18 % in 2017) or Georgia.

Moreover, the Commission continued to engage with European financial institutions and regional

development banks on a range of topics, including mobilisation of domestic resources, public

financial management, private sector, blending platforms, Africa and the Neighbourhood.

On debt issues,

although o o i g is a i po ta t pa t of a go e

e t s fi a i g st ateg ,

unsustainable debt accumulation calls into question overall macroeconomic stability and access to

further financing, and it often reverses development progress. The debt portfolio of developing

countries is becoming significantly more complex as expanding private sector lending, international

and domestic bond issuance and non-traditional financing products (e.g. collaterals) introduce new

risks related to currency, refinancing and interest rates. At the same time, around 40 % of low-

income countries are at high risk of, or are already in, debt distress. In this context, debt

management capacity and transparency are becoming increasingly important.

The Commission is supporting international efforts to enhance debt management capacities. This

includes accurately recording and reporting debt data as well as developing medium-term debt

management strategies to minimise the risks and the cost of financing. The budget support

programmes provide the framework in which to engage in regular dialogue on macroeconomic

stability and fiscal sustainability. In 2018, the EU supported implementation of the Operational

Guidelines on Sustainable Financing, which aim to enhance debt transparency of both creditors and

debtors. Also in 2018, the Debt Management Facility Stakeholders Forum took place in Brussels,

bringing together policymakers and debt managers from developing countries and international

organisations to address emerging debt challenges.

When it comes to capacity-building support in 2018, the EU took a leading role in the activities of the

GPEDC and continued to represent Member States on the steering committee of the partnership.

The EU focused on implementing initiatives to strengthen partnerships at country level, developing

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

principles and practical guidance to ensure the development effectiveness of private sector

engagement and supporting the engagement of civil society in national and global policy processes.

In addition, the EU played a key role in the 2018 GPEDC monitoring round with regard to updating

the methodology to incorporate the SDGs and supporting the implementation of the monitoring

exercise itself, and through active participation of EU delegations at country level.

On policy and institutional coherence, joint programming of development assistance from the EU

and its Member States has been a major tool to address development effectiveness issues. Joint

monitoring and results frameworks conceived by the EU and its Member States have been included

in an increasing number of Joint Programming Documents, such as those launched in Kenya and

Senegal in 2018. This is pertinent for the 2030 Agenda and the Addis Ababa Agenda for Action, both

of which call for increased policy coherence.

On strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships, the EU has been at the forefront of working with

partners to mobilise and share knowledge, expertise, technology and resources in support of the

SDGs. The EU and its Member States are committed to working better together by jointly

programming, implementing and monitoring their cooperation at country level.

To promote cooperation and alliance building on global issues of mutual interest, the EU is also

partnering with middle-income countries

–

strategic partners in particular

–

on a peer-to-peer basis,

for example through the Partnership Instrument, in line with the aims of SDG 17. Actions cover

policies such as the international dimension of the Europe 2020 Strategy and boosting trade,

investment and business opportunities for EU companies. This engagement also establishes

pa t e ships o fighti g li ate ha ge; fo e a ple, Suppo t to the i ple e tatio of the Pa is

Ag ee e t ith ajo e o o ies e ou ages G pa t e ou t ies to i ple e t their

climate

change mitigation and adaptation policies successfully.

Development dialogue with non-EU development partners in 2018 was essential, such as the High-

Level EU–Japan Development Policy Dialogue and the Development Policy Dialogue with South

Korea.

To support civil society and local authorities, the Commission held three Policy Forums on

Development: unique multi-stakeholder partnerships that aim to improve SDG implementation. The

Commission also organised a Partnership Forum with networks of CSOs and associations of local

authorities that signed Framework Partnership Agreements with the Commission and with the

International Trade Union Confederation and the International Organisation of Employers at the

same time. Additionally, the Commission launched a dialogue with foundations and held a meeting

with diaspora groups on investment and entrepreneurship in order to strengthen their contribution

to the achievement of the SDGs.

The EU continued to be actively engaged in development-related UN processes, including the

High-Level Political Forum and the Financing for Development Forum, as well as with the

announcement of the renewed EU–UN Partnership in Development. The EU continued its strong

support of the UN Reforms (development system, management and security) led by the

Secretary-General.

The Commission played an influential role in major OECD

DAC e e ts th oughout

. The EU s

views were well reflected in decisions taken on OECD DAC institutional reform, innovative financing

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

for sustainable development and harmonisation of reporting practices, including a new SDG

reporting field.

A key feature in 2018 was the further strengthening of the partnerships with international financial

institutions. The European Commission ensured high-level participation at the World Bank Group

(WBG) and IMF spring and annual meetings and prepared for the second Deep Dive high-level

meeting. It also organised the 15th annual dialogue between the EU Member States on the board of

the WBG and the EU institutions to increase EU coordination.

The Commission actively worked in the G20 Development Working Group on reducing inequalities

and leaving no one behind. Support for the Canadian G7 presidency helped make tangible progress

o ge de e ualit a d o e s e po e e t, food security,

education, health, climate change,

clean energy, financial stability and peace and security. The EU also played an active role in the G7

a ou ta ilit p o ess a d o ki g g oup th ough the Cha le oi P og ess Repo t o Wo e s

economic empowerment as a driver for innovation, shared prosperity and sustainable

de elop e t .

Since 2003, the EU has been a member of the multi-contributor joint competency development

network Learn4dev, which remains a strong partner in sharing best practice on learning and

knowledge management.

Taking into account the rapidly changing development landscape, in 2018 agile learning and the idea

of eati g a o

o e t poi t o e ti g the e isti g o t i uto s lea i g platfo s e e at

the centre of discussions. As the

et o k s ost i po ta t e e t of the ea , the

a ual

meeting

–

hosted by the International Training Centre of the ILO in Turin

–

was an occasion not only

to strengthen connections within the network, but also to work with new partners and stakeholders

on creating learning scenarios.

Case studies

A pilot joint action for the nutrition sector in Ethiopia

Ethiopia,

EU+ joint programming ( ) launched a pilot joint action for the nutrition sector. This action

developed a coherent and cohesive response

to Ethiopia s ke de elop e t halle ge of edu i g hild

stunting. The EU+ Joint Strategy on Nutrition, which was launched in 2016, has led to increased

transparency, complementarity, coherence and predictability of support for the nutrition sector. It has

helped to identify where EU+ resources could be allocated more strategically and effectively to achieve

better gains in maternal and child nutrition. Nutrition is now also better integrated into other sectors, such

as education and agriculture, to address the underlying and basic causes of malnutrition more effectively.

For example, recognising that the education sector plays an essential role in reducing malnutrition in a

sustainable, long-term and equitable manner, the EU+ worked to increase enrolment and retention of

pupils, and particularly to improve female adolescent access to education up to secondary level. Ethiopian

women in particular are benefiting from the EU+ Joint Strategy because it puts them at the centre of

nutrition-related interventio

s, oth i u al a d i u a setti gs, p o oti g ge de e ualit a d o e s

decision-making.

EU joint programming means the joint planning of cooperation by the EU and one or more of its Member States. EU+ joint programming

involves the EU, one or more of its Member States and other like-minded countries, in this case 20 Member States and Norway.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Indicators on domestic resource mobilisation

West Africa,

eight countries included indicators on domestic resource mobilisation in their budget

support

p og a

es Be i , Bu ki a Faso, Côte d I oi e, Gui ea, Mali, Nige , Sie a Leo e a d Togo .

Reforms have generally focused on the assessment of tax expenditures and improving the efficiency of value

added tax systems. Since 2016, these countries have had an average increase of 1.4 % of GDP in government

revenues. Although revenue collection has various determinants, this shows a clear correlation between

greater engagement on domestic resource mobilisation and tangible progress in partner countries (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Revenue as a percentage of GDP in West Africa (2014–2016)

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

2. Results reporting and alignment to SDGs

2.1. The EU International Cooperation and Development Results Framework and

the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II) Performance Framework

In recent years, European Commission services have stepped up efforts to foster a culture of results-

based management and strengthen related reporting systems, enhancing accountability,

transparency and visibility of EU aid (

). This includes the publishing of the EU International

Cooperation and Development Results Framework (EU RF) in 2015 (

) and a revised version in

2018 (

). Results reporting against the revised framework is the focus of the present chapter, with

two sections based on the fifth round of results reporting against EU RF indicators.

In addition, selected results for aid to the Western Balkans and Turkey region, financed by the IPA II,

are presented for the first time in this report. These are from the first results reporting exercise

based on the IPA II Performance Framework (IPA II PF), which was carried out in parallel to the fifth

round of EU RF results reporting.

2.1.1. Revision of the EU Results Framework and results reporting exercise

The EU RF was revised in 2018 because European and international development policies had

evolved since the first framework was produced in 2015. Notably, at the international level, the 2030

Agenda for Sustainable Development (

) was adopted by the UN, and the targets and indicators for

SDGs were agreed upon. At the European level, the new European Consensus on Development (

)

i o po ates the

Age da pa adig shift i to the EU s de elop e t oope atio poli a d

provides a common framework for development cooperation for the EU and its Member States.

With these changes in mind, the primary aim of the revision was to align the EU RF to the new

international and European policy frameworks, building on the lessons learned from its

implementation since inception. The EU RF continues to be a tool used at corporate level to enhance

accountability, transparency and visibility of EU cooperation and development activities.

2.1.1.1. Reporting from ongoing interventions

The function of the results framework has been reinforced and extended in the revised EU RF to

support decision-making and to promote learning. Key to this process, the reporting includes for the

first time a sample of ongoing operations. This represents a significant step towards the

issio s ai of fu the i easi g data

coverage and obtaining more timely information.

2.1.1.2. Coverage and structure of the revised EU RF

In line with the principles of aid effectiveness and effective development cooperation that

emphasise partnerships and country ownership, results for the revised EU RF are presented on a

contribution basis. That is, rather than results being based on the share of funding provided by the

EU, they represent the combined efforts of a variety of partners, including the EU, Member States,

COM(2011) 637 final, 30.08.2017.

SWD(2015) 80 final, 23.03.2015.

SWD(2018) 444 final, 11.10.2018.

UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/70/1.

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:42017Y0630(01)&from=EN.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

partner country governments and public institutions, local communities, contributors, international

and finance agencies, CSOs, non-profit entities and private companies.

The revised EU RF is structured around three levels of results.

Level 1

corresponds to development progress in partner countries; that is, the medium- and long-

term development impact achieved in partnership and collaboration with others. Such progress is,

by nature, slow, and impacts reported at this level are not intended to assess the performance of EU

international cooperation directly, but rather reflect the operational context in which EU external

assistance is provided. The indicators at this level are selected as far as possible from the SDG

indicators.

Level 2

focuses on development outcomes and outputs to which EU-funded interventions contribute

in collaboration with partner governments and other funding providers. It is at this level that results

most relevant for internal decision-making, accountability, communication and lesson learning are

aggregated at the corporate level. Indicators from the first EU RF have been retained where

relevant.

Level 3

focuses on the mainstreaming of policy priorities, as measured by budgetary commitments

directed at specific cross-cutting issues (e.g. human development, gender, nutrition). This is to avoid

duplication of reporting elsewhere and partial reporting. Level 3 focuses on finance data.

To increase coherence with international and European policy frameworks, the EU RF is now framed

around the SDGs and incorporates results statements to articulate the key EU international

cooperation objectives, as reflected in the Consensus.

As with the first EU RF, a methodology note is available for each of the indicators in the revised

framework. The notes provide clear definitions, inclusion/exclusion criteria, etc., and they ensure

transparency as well as consistency in application of the indicators (

2.2.

Results-based management

The EU RF is one component of a broader system that supports results-based practices throughout

the whole intervention life cycle. This system has been continually strengthened in recent years to

deliver better on results-oriented development cooperation.

Internal monitoring:

At the intervention level, the logical framework matrix, with appropriate

indicators, is used for internal monitoring. To prepare the ground for solid monitoring, peer review is

carried out during the design of interventions, supporting the formulation of robust indicators,

baselines and targets.

Annual internal management reporting:

Once a year, the heads of EU delegations across the world

identify potential difficulties and delays in the implementation cycle of ongoing EU development

cooperation interventions. This reporting helps the European Commission services in taking

appropriate corrective measures.

External appraisal:

Internal monitoring is supplemented by external monitoring (results-oriented

reviews), which is carried out to provide independent advice on improving project delivery.

The methodological notes can be found at the following Capacity4dev web page:

https://europa.eu/capacity4dev/eu-rfi.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Results frameworks:

The EU RF is the monitoring tool used to report aggregated results at corporate

level. It complements other monitoring and reporting frameworks that were developed for the

se to al le el o fo spe ifi i itiati es; a e a ple is the EUTF fo Af i a s esults f a e o k.

Data used for reporting on the EU RF

Level 1

reports figures published by international data sources (SDG indicators, World Bank, etc.). Results

are presented by region where figures are available. In some cases, poor availability of data means that

regional aggregates are not possible. Here, results are presented at country level instead. Whereas the

previous EU RF covered EU partner countries only, reporting on the revised framework considers all

countries included in reporting by international data sources.

Level 2

reports results from a set of EU-funded interventions, both ongoing and completed ( ): those that

started in January 2014 or later, have had an EU contribution of EUR 750 000 or more and were under

implementation for at least 24 months at the time of project selection (June 2018).

The sample of ongoing interventions will be expanded over time, notably with the help of a new IT platform

which, as of December 2018, is under development. This staged expansion means that, as with previous

results reporting, the annual figures are not suitable for assessing trends over time. For example, increases

in figures reported may simply be due to expansion in the sample at different points in time. In addition, the

move to include ongoing interventions in the revised EU RF means that results reported this year are not

directly comparable with those reported in previous years.

To illustrate the results achieved since the first EU RF, the results are cumulated over time for indicators

that have had no definitional change; this is also done for indicators where definitional changes have led to

underestimation (or more conservative estimates) of totals using current EU RF definitions. This

presentation is purely for illustrative purposes, and it is recognised that there are limitations to presenting

figures in this manner.

Level 3

reports on organisational performance based on financial data referring to the calendar year

2018 ( ).

More technical details on all levels of the EU RF and detailed results tables can be found in the

annexes.

2.3.

Overview of results for EU RF Level 2

With a focus on results that can be closely linked to EU-funded interventions, Level 2 of the EU RF

forms the core of results reporting.

The total expenditure corresponding to the interventions included in the latest round of data

collection, in 2018, was EUR 4.720 billion. Figure 3 shows the expenditure for the projects and

programmes broken down by sector.

The interventions were financed using the following instruments: the EDF; the DCI; the programmable part of the IcSP under Article 5;

the EIDHR; the Instrument for Nuclear Safety Cooperation; the Instrument for Greenland; and the European Neighbourhood Instrument

(ENI).

The interventions were financed using the following instruments: the EDF; the DCI; the programmable part of the IcSP under Article 5;

the EIDHR; the Instrument for Nuclear Safety Cooperation; and the Instrument for Greenland.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Figure 3. Expenditure by sector for projects/programmes reporting results against EU RF indicators

(%)

Transport

Humanitarian aid

Employment and social protection

Conflict prevention, peacebuilding and security

Natural resources, environment and climate change

Trade and private sector development

Health

Education

General budget support

Non-specified

Energy

Good governance

Sustai a le a d i lusi e ag i ultu e, food se u it a d…

10%

11%

12%

15%

16%

NB: Due to differing reporting structures, Figure 3 does not cover results from the EUTF for Africa and the EU–Africa

Infrastructure Trust Fund (ITF).

Please note the following.

a) Information is based on the OECD DAC sector codes assigned to each project and programme; clear one-to-one mapping

between the sectors, as defined by the OECD DAC and by the EU RF, is not always possible.

b) There are some OECD DAC sectors that are not explicitly covered by the sectors of the EU RF; in particular, general

budget support (GBS) has its own OECD DAC sector code but is not covered by a specific sector in the EU RF; results

achieved through GBS programmes are reported under different EU RF sectors (mainly in health and in education).

c) Unspecified expenditure includes, among other types, expenditure on urban development, actions relating to debt,

programmes on culture and recreation, and ICT.

Table 1 shows the latest aggregated results for EU RF Level 2 indicators. Note that historical data are

not available for EU RF indicators that have been substantially revised. Note also that there is no

entry for the EU

RF i di ato .

Ma i e a eas u de

sustai a le a age e t ith EU suppo t

(km

)

. This i di ato as i t odu ed i the e isio a d, as of De e e

, the ethodolog is

still under development (closely following the ongoing work done by the UN on SDG indicator 14.2.1

P opo tio of atio al EEZs a aged usi g e os ste

-based approa

hes . Fu the o e, EU RF

i di ato . Nu e of i di iduals ith a ess to ele t i it ith EU suppo t th ough a e o

i p o ed a ess u e tl o l epo ts the u e of i di iduals ith e a ess, due to data

limitations. Improved access will be reported in the forthcoming years.

Table 1. EU RF Level 2

–

Latest aggregated results achieved with EU support, 2013–2018

(

)

EU RF indicator

Number of food-insecure people receiving EU

d, e

assistance ( )

2013–

2017

( )

14 159 000

2018

2013–2018

2.1

12 038 000

26 197 000

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU RF indicator

Number of women of reproductive age, adolescent

girls and children under five reached by nutrition-

related interventions supported by the EU ( )

Food-insecure people

Number of smallholders reached with EU-supported

interventions aimed to increase their sustainable

production, access to markets and/or security of

e, f

land ( )

Food-insecure people

Agricultural and pastoral ecosystems where

sustainable management practices have been

introduced with EU support (ha)

Number of one-year-olds fully immunised with EU

support

Number of women of reproductive age using

modern contraception methods with EU support ( )

Number of students enrolled in education with EU

support: a) primary education

Number of students enrolled in education with EU

support: b) secondary education

Number of individuals with access to improved

drinking water source and/or sanitation facility with

EU support ( )

Number of individuals assessing electricity with EU

support through: a) new access; b) improved

access ( )

Renewable energy generation capacity installed with

EU support (MW) ( )

Number of jobs supported/sustained by the EU ( )

Number of countries supported by the EU to

strengthen investment climate

Number of beneficiaries with access to financial

services with EU support: a) firms

2013–

2017

( )

2018

2013–2018

11 976 000

5 811 000

17 787 000

2.2

–

1 381 000

3 841 000

3 144 000

6 985 000

2.3

–

828 000

2.4

3 675 000

476 000

4 152 000

2.5

13 253 000

63 806 000

77 060 000

2.6

–

13 850 000

2.7a

47 763 000

10 041 000

55 438 000

2.7b

21 087 000

1 767 000

22 803 000

2.8

–

723 000

2.9

–

–16

853 000

2.10

2.11

2.12

–

–7

300

67 000

2.13a

37 000

4 900

42 000

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU RF indicator

Number of beneficiaries with access to financial

services with EU support: b) individuals ( )

Number of quality schemes adopted by economic

operators with EU support

Number of people who have benefited from

institution-

workplace-based

VET/skills

development interventions supported by the EU ( )

Total length of road supported by the EU through: a)

construction; b) rehabilitation; c) maintenance

(km) ( )

Number of migrants, forcibly displaced people or

individuals from host communities protected or

assisted with EU support ( )

Number of migration management or forced

displacement

strategies

policies:

developed/revised with EU support ( )

Number of migration management or forced

displacement strategies or policies: b) under

implementation with EU support ( )

Number of countries and cities with climate change

and/or disaster risk reduction strategies: a)

developed; b) under implementation with EU

support ( )

Number of MSMEs applying SCP practices with EU

support

Greenhouse gas emissions avoided with EU support

(tonnes CO

e) ( )

Marine areas under: a) protection with EU support

2 h

(km ) ( )

Areas of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems

under: a) protection with EU support (ha) ( )

Areas of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems

under: b) sustainable management with EU support

(ha) ( )

Number of countries supported by the EU to

conduct elections and/or improve their electoral

2013–

2017

( )

–

2018

2013–2018

2.13b

1 163 000

2.14

1 500

1 600

2.15

882 000

138 000

1 021 000

2.16

43 000

22 000

65 000

2.17

–

1 500 000

2.18a

–

2.18b

–

2.19

100

191

2.20

27 000

6 500

33 000

2.21

–

18 376 000

2.22a

–

2 700

2.23a

46 572 000

6 936 000

53 508 000

2.23b

–

155 000

2.24

–

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU RF indicator

process ( )

Number of government policies developed or

revised with civil society organisation participation

through EU support ( )

Number of victims of human rights violations

directly benefiting from assistance funded by the

EU ( )

Number of people directly benefiting from legal aid

interventions supported by the EU

Number of individuals directly benefiting from EU-

supported interventions that specifically aim to

support civilian post-conflict peacebuilding and/or

conflict prevention

Number of state institutions and non-state actors

supported on security, border management,

countering violent extremism, conflict prevention,

protection of civilian population and human rights ( )

Number of countries supported by the EU to

strengthen revenue mobilisation, public financial

management and/or budget transparency ( )

2013–

2017

( )

2018

2013–2018

2.25

–

2.26

–

42 000

2.27

1 682 000

168 000

1 849 000

2.28

2 789 000

285 000

3 074 000

2.29

–

2 300

2.30

–

Total figures, covering 2013 to 2018, may not equal the sum of results from 2013–2017 and 2018. This is due to

avoidance of double counting, because of rounding figures, or both.

Refers to data collected from EU-funded interventions that ended between July 2013 and June 2017.

Refers to data collected from EU-funded interventions that started from January 2014 onward and either ended between

July 2017 and June 2018 or were ongoing at the time of project selection (June 2018).

The EU RF value is cumulated across years with the results for the indicator from the previous EU

RF: Nu e of food-

i se u e people e ei i g assista e th ough so ial t a sfe s suppo ted the EU . The fo us o so ial t a sfe s ea s the

previous indicator has a narrower definition of food-insecure people.

The number reported under indicator 2.1 may overlap with those for indicators 2.2 and/or 2.3. Indeed, food-insecure

people may also be reached by nutrition-related interventions covered by indicator 2.2 and/or interventions aimed to

i ease s allholde s sustai a le p odu tio , a ess to a kets a d/o se u it of la d o e ed

RF 2.3. For

indicators 2.2 and 2.3, the numbers of food-insecure people reached (based on the revised EU RF) are reported separately.

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. It combines parts of the previous EU RF indicators

Nu e of people e ei i g u al ad iso se i es a d Nu e of people ho ha e se u e te u e of la d alues fo

2013–2017: 3 841 000 and 815 000, respectively). For the purpose of reporting across years, the current value for the new

RF i di ato is u ulated ith the histo i al data fo Nu e of people e ei i g u al ad iso se i es .

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. In the previous EU RF, the related indicator

o e usi g a

ethod of o t a eptio

had a wider scope and reported a value of 57 302 000 for 2013–2017.

e of

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. No data were collected prior to the revision.

This indicator was newly introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. The value reported represents inferred access to

electricity for the overall reporting period 2013–2018. It currently does not include the number of individuals with access

to electricity with EU support through improved access, due to data limitations. Improved access will be reported in the

forthcoming years. As a result, the number of people with access to electricity (new or improved) through EU support is

expected to be significantly higher.

Besides reporting on interventions covered by the EU RF, this indicator also includes 2018 figures reported through the

EUTF (window: Horn of Africa

–

excluding life skills, in line with the EU RF methodology).

The 2018 value corresponds to: a) 250 km constructed; b) 300 km rehabilitated; and c) 21 000 km maintained. It is

cumulated with the indicator from the previous EU

RF: Total le gth of oad o st u ted/ eha ilitated/ ai tai ed k .

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. Besides reporting on interventions covered by the EU RF,

the value also includes 2018 figures reported through the EUTF for Africa (windows: Horn of Africa; North Africa; Sahel and

Lake Chad).

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. Besides reporting on interventions covered by the EU RF,

the value also includes 2018 figures reported through the EUTF for Africa (window: North Africa).

The 2018 value corresponds to: a) 60 strategies developed and b) 35 strategies implemented but does not equal the sum

of these figures as there is double counting.

The value for 2013–2017 is from a related indicator in the previous EU RF: Number of hectares of protected areas

a aged ith EU suppo t .

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. In the previous EU

RF, the elated i di ato

Number of

elections supported by the EU where the electoral process is perceived by independe

t o se e s as f ee a d fai

had a

different scope and reported a value of 38 elections for 2013–2017.

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. In the previous EU

RF, the elated i di ato Nu e of

human rights defenders who

ha e e ei ed EU suppo t

had a different scope and reported a value of 138 000 for 2013–

2017.

Besides reporting on interventions covered by the EU RF, this indicator also includes 2018 figures reported through the

EUTF for Africa (windows: Horn of Africa; Sahel and Lake Chad).

This indicator was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF. In the previous EU RF, the related indicator

Nu e of

ou t ies he e o e all pu li fi a ial a age e t has i p o ed

had a different scope and reported a value of 30

countries for 2013–2017.

2.4.

Results reported under the EU RF per SDG

In this section, presentation of EU RF results is structured according to the 17 SDGs (

). For each

SDG in turn, a short update on progress is given, followed by the relevant results statement(s) from

the new European Consensus on Development and the latest data for EU RF indicators; the latter

include results for each of the three EU RF levels, depending on availability for each SDG.

Additionally, results achieved at Level 2 (outcomes and outputs supported by the EU) are

complemented by selected examples from EU-funded interventions. These examples also highlight

The revised EU RF as presented in SWD(2018) 444 does not link Level 3 indicators to specific SDGs. For the purpose of this report, results

from each of the 10 Level 3 indicators are presented with reference to a specific SDG, even though they may actually contribute to more

than one of the goals.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

priorities which are not captured by EU RF indicators, such as youth, people with disabilities and

digitalisation.

2.4.1. SDG 1 No poverty

While extreme poverty has eased considerably since 1990, pockets of the worst forms of poverty

persist. Ending poverty requires universal social protection systems aimed at safeguarding all

individuals

–

women and men, boys and girls

–

throughout the life cycle. It also requires targeted

measures to reduce vulnerability to disasters and to address underserved geographic areas within

each country (

Eradicate poverty, leave no one behind

EU RF indicator 1.1 Proportion of population below the international poverty line (2015)

Europe

and

Central

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Middle

East and

North

Africa

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

World

East Asia

and Pacific

Northern

America

Southern

Asia

10.0 %

2.3 %

1.5 %

4.1 %

5.0 %

–

41.1 %

16.2 %*

This figure is based on data for 2013.

2.4.2. SDG 2 Zero hunger

After a prolonged decline, world hunger appears to be on the rise again. Conflict, drought and

disasters linked to climate change are among the key factors causing this reversal in progress (

Pursue an end to hunger and undernutrition and systematically integrate resilience in all actions

EU RF indicator 1.2 Prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity in the population (2015)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

–

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

23.9 %

62.4 %

32.1 %

27.8 %

11.0 %

–

9.3 %

EU RF indicator 1.3 Prevalence of stunting among children under five years of age (2017)

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg1.

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg2.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

World

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Oceania

Europe

and

northern

America

–

22.2 %

32.6 %

16.3 %

32.4 %

13.2 %

9.6 %

–

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicators 2.1 and 2.2

12 038 000

food-insecure people received EU assistance

5 811 000

women of reproductive age, adolescent girls and children under five were reached by

nutrition-related interventions supported by the EU, among whom 1 381 000 were food-insecure

Along with other international contributors, the EU is supporting

Ethiopia s

Productive Safety Net

Programme (PSNP), which aims to reduce vulnerability to food insecurity by providing economic

opportunities and building resilience to crises. The fourth phase of the PSNP started in mid-2015

with an integrated approach to social protection, food security and natural resources management.

The programme addressed environmental issues and climate change, focusing on increasing

resilience to shocks, reducing deforestation through land restoration and improving environmental

management. In addition, the programme assisted 8 million food-insecure individuals with social

protection intervention. Of these, 46 000 pregnant and lactating women and children under five

were provided with effective support, guidance and counselling on nutrition. Furthermore, those

who were unable to work (elderly people, those with disabilities, pregnant and lactating women

–

corresponding to 17 % of the beneficiaries) received direct grants throughout the year. The PSNP

also implemented a livelihood facilitation component with the aim of improving the livelihood

conditions of food-insecure people.

In partnership with the government of

Nigeria

and Unicef, the EU launched the second phase of

Mate al, Ne o , Child Health a d Nut itio Suppo t i th ee states of o the Nige ia. The

intervention serves poor, marginalised, rural women and under-fives with an integrated approach

covering:



health

HIV/AIDS

nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene

child protection

social protection.

More than 2.5 million beneficiaries

–

pregnant women, lactating mothers and children under five

–

were assisted with nutrition supplements and healthcare. In addition, the intervention focused on

building capacities in order to institutionalise birth registration services within the healthcare

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

delivery systems. With EU support, since 2016, more than 2.1 million children have been registered

in the three target states, achieving the highest birth registration rates in Nigeria.

Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.1

At the Nutrition for Growth summit in London on 8

Ju e

, du i g the U ited Ki gdo s

presidency of the G8, the EU pledged to provide EUR 3.5 billion between 2014 and 2020 to reduce

stunting. So far, EUR 2.073 billion has been committed (2014–2018).

3.1 Amount of EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance directed at nutrition

(EUR)

2014–

2018

2.07

billion

–

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Target

Commitment

229.9

million

163.6

million

309.6

million

172.4

million

892.9

million

268.2

million

376.3

million

329.9

million

264.2

million ( )

–

( )

Payment

3.5 billion

(2014–

2020)

Support sustainable agriculture and fisheries, especially for smallholders

EU RF indicator 1.4 Value added of agriculture as a percentage of GDP (2016) ( )

Europe

and

Central

Asia

1.9 %

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

4.9 %

Middle

East and

North

Africa

5.3 %

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

World

East Asia

and Pacific

Northern

America

Southern

Asia

3.6 %

5.1 %

1.0 %

15.8 %

16.7 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicators 2.3 and 2.4

3 144 000

smallholders

–

828 000 of whom were food-insecure

–

were reached with EU-supported

interventions aimed at increasing their sustainable production, access to markets and/or security of

land

476 000

hectares of agricultural and pastoral ecosystems were managed by sustainable land

management practices with EU support

The EU and the World Bank joined efforts to support the National Horticulture and Livestock Project

under the framework of the

Afghanistan

Reconstruction Trust Fund. The intervention is

This is a preliminary figure.

The figure is not yet available.

The World Bank indicator for agriculture includes forestry, hunting and fishing as well as cultivation of crops and livestock production.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock. The

development objective is to promote the adoption of improved production practices by target

farmers with gradual rollout of farmer-centric agricultural services systems and investment support.

It is aligned with the National Comprehensive Agriculture Production and Market Development

Programme. The intervention has three components:



horticultural production

animal production and health

implementation management and technical assistance support.

The activities are implemented in 208 districts in up to 34 target provinces. As of December 2018,

the intervention has provided 614 000 smallholders (228 000 women and 386 000 men) with

advisory services and training.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EU fu ded the E e gisi g a ess to sustai a le e e g p og a

e, fo usi g spe ifi all o

promoting the resilience and livelihoods of the rural beneficiaries in seven Local Government Areas

in Katsina State,

Nigeria.

The intervention contributed to reducing the fuelwood consumption by

fa i g households a d i p o i g the fuel ood ala e a d fa e s esilie e to e te al sho ks

through the following main actions:



introduction of sustainable agroforestry systems for enhanced crop and livestock

production,

promotion of fuelwood-saving technologies for on-farm use (clean cooking stoves),

improvement of the management of wood resources through on-farm planting and

regeneration of trees.



More than 55 000 pastoral farmers received training and advisory services and engaged in farmer-

managed natural regeneration and other agroforestry models, covering a surface of 147 000

hectares.

2.4.3. SDG 3 Good health and well-being

Many more people are living healthier lives in 2018 than in 2008. Nevertheless, people are still

suffering needlessly from preventable diseases, and too many are dying prematurely. Overcoming

disease and ill health will require concerted and sustained efforts, focusing on population groups

and regions that have been neglected (

Build strong, good-quality and resilient health systems, providing equitable access to health

services and universal health coverage

EU RF indicator 1.5 Universal Health Coverage index (2015)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.5

63 806 000

one-year-olds were fully immunised with EU support

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is an international organisation created in 2000 to bring together public

and private sectors with the shared goal of creating equal access to new and underused vaccines for

child

e li i g i the o ld s poo est ou t ies. The EU has ee a o t i uto to Ga i si e

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg3.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

I olla o atio ith WHO a d Lu e ou g, the EU lau hed the Poli dialogue o atio al health

poli ies, st ategies a d pla s i itiati e i

. This ai

s at building country capacities for the

development, negotiation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of robust and comprehensive

national health policies, strategies and plans, with the view of promoting universal coverage, people-

centred care and health in all policies. It aims at strengthening country processes, as well as (where

appropriate) aid effectiveness in line with the principles of the International Health Partnership.

Since its inception in 2011, other contributors have joined the initiative (Irish Aid, the Government of

Japan and the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs), and the partnership has expanded

steadily, reaching 65 member countries worldwide.

Universal access to quality and affordable comprehensive sexual and reproductive health

information and services, including access to family planning

EU RF indicator 1.6 Adolescent birth rate per 1 000 adolescents aged 15–19 years (2018)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

101.4

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

40.5

Central

and

southern

Asia

31.8

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

20.8

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

61.3

Europe

and

northern

America

15.0

World

Oceania

43.9

27.4

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.6

13 850 000

women of reproductive age were using modern contraception methods with EU support

Kenya,

the EU implemented a family health project to improve maternal and child health and

sexual and reproductive health, as well as to raise awareness on family planning and nutrition

among communities in Manyatta and Nyalenda in Kisumu County, western Kenya. The intervention

had three main components:



capacity building to ensure non-state and state health actors meet needs relating to

maternal, newborn and child health, family planning, sexual and reproductive health and

nutrition,

awareness-raising so that men, women and adolescents take part in health decision-making

and demand accountability and quality health services,

empowerment of men, women, children and vulnerable groups in order to increase

utilisation of services and take up health-conducive practices.



Over three years of implementation, the intervention has succeeded in establishing and/or restoring

health facilities and community health units offering sexual, reproductive, maternal and newborn

health and nutrition services. It also provided training to peer educators to mobilise community

members and marginalised youths in participatory education on health-conducive behaviours to

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

counter retrogressive cultural practices regarding maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive

health and nutrition. More than 10 000 women received assistance on sexual and reproductive

health, family planning and modern contraception methods.

2.4.4. SDG 4 Quality education

Over 50 % of children and adolescents worldwide are not meeting minimum proficiency standards in

reading and mathematics. Refocused efforts are needed to improve the quality of education.

Disparities in education along the lines of gender, urban–rural location and other dimensions still run

deep, and more investment is required in education infrastructure, particularly in the LDCs (

Support inclusive lifelong learning and equitable quality education

EU RF indicator 1.7 Literacy rate of 15–24-year-olds (2016)

Europe

and

Central

Asia

99.8 %

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

98.4 %

Middle

East and

North

Africa

90.8 %

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

75.3 %

World

East Asia

and Pacific

Northern

America

Southern

Asia

91.4 %

98.7 %

–

88.3 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.7

10 041 000

students enrolled in primary education with EU support

1 767 000

students enrolled in secondary education with EU support

Through a budget support programme to the Ministry of Education in

Jordan,

the EU helped to

provide quality education to Syrian pupils both in the refugee camps and the host communities. The

intervention covered several dimensions of the education sector, for example improving schools and

library facilities (equipment, furniture, stationery and books)

–

including computer and science

education

–

and promoting the creation of community-based organisations in host communities and

camps to support quality education and reduce dropout rates. By the end of the programme (school

year 2016/17) more than 126 000 Syrian children received primary and secondary education free of

charge. As part of this intervention, six new schools were built. In addition, in 2015 the programme

introduced the biannual measurement of education quality in 30 schools, which has supported

moves to provide quality education to both Syrian and Jordanian students in host communities and

camp schools. This innovative approach has rallied all international contributors (from Australia to

the United Kingdom) to support the Ministry of Education.

Already before the 2013 conflict, the education sector in

Central African Republic

was facing many

challenges. The situation became even worse with successive crises in the country. In the aftermath

of the 2013 crisis, over one third of schools had been damaged or occupied by armed groups. As a

result, the quality of education suffered greatly. In 2016, the completion rate of primary education

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg4.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

was around 48 %, and large disparities existed between girls (40 %) and boys (54 %). The EU

contributed to improving the school system and guaranteeing access to primary school for more

than 191 000 pupils (90 000 girls and 101 000 boys), exceeding the target of 150 000 pupils. The EU

intervention applied a comprehensive approach, ensuring:



capacity building of the Ministry of Education to ensure coherent policies and planning and a

reliable statistical system;

improvement of the learning environment and restoration of school facilities, as well as

teacher training and creation of community centres to assist and protect children, especially

those most affected by the conflict.



Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.2

The EU RF Level 3 indicator related to support for human development can be linked to SDG 4.

Human development is about ensuring all people can live a life in dignity, out of poverty, with their

rights protected and fulfilled. In its Communication on the Agenda for Change

–

COM(2011) 637

–

the Commission set an overall benchmark of spending 20 % of the cooperation and development

budget on social inclusion and human development (2014–2020). The new European Consensus on

Development reiterates this target. By 2018, 18.4 % of EU-funded international cooperation and

development assistance was committed towards supporting human development. This is broken

down by sector in Figure 4.

3.2 Share of EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance directed at supporting

human development

2014

15.8 %

2015

21.0 %

2016

13.7 %

2017

17.1 %

2018

( )

23.3 %

2014–2018

( )

18.4 %

Target

20.0 %

Figure 4. Commitments towards human development by sector, 2018 (%)

Source: European Commission

As of 2018 the indicator now also considers gender, following revision of the EU RF.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

2.4.5. SDG 5 Gender equality

Gender equality and empowerment of women and girls are fundamental human rights and an

essential precondition for equitable and inclusive sustainable development. While some forms of

discrimination against women and girls are in decline, gender inequality continues to hold women

back and deprives them of basic rights and opportunities. The level of gender equality achieved is

uneven across regions and within countries. Worldwide, girls and women continue to be

systematically left behind and discriminated against, and persistent violations of their rights occur on

a daily basis.

Empowering women requires the addressing of structural issues such as unfair social norms and

attitudes, as well as developing progressive legal frameworks that promote equality between

women and men. The EU is firmly committed to supporting gender equality and empowerment of

women and girls worldwide. It works towards removal of obstacles related to legislation, social

norms and gender stereotypes to ensure voice and participation for girls and women, to increase

their agency in social, economic, political and civil life.

Elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and girls

EU RF indicator 1.8 Proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments (2018)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

Western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

23.4 %

23.6 %

18.1 %

15.4 %

20.3 %

29.5 %

15.5 %

28.4 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries

The elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and girls is a priority across all areas of

EU external action, as stressed in the Council conclusions on the implementation of GAP II and

outli ed i Ge de e ualit a d o e s e po e e t: T a sfo i g li es of gi ls a d o e

through EU external relations 2016–

. GAP

II focuses on taking action and transforming lives

through the following pivotal areas:



e su i g gi ls a d o e s ph si al a d ps hologi al i teg it ,

promoting the economic and social rights/empowerment of girls and women,

st e gthe i g gi ls a d o e s oi e a d pa ti ipatio .

In addition, a fourth goal emphasises the need to shift institutional culture to deliver more

effectively on EU commitments.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EU uses a three-pronged approach to gender equality:



policy and political dialogue

gender mainstreaming

targeted actions.

Special attention is given to mainstreaming gender equality across all policies and programmes as a

key contribution to the successful achievement of the SDGs (

). Due to the cross-cutting nature of

o e s a d gi ls ights, the EU

RF does not contain a specific indicator to report on gender

equality, though sex-disaggregated data are collected where available. In line with GAP II, all EU

interventions should be gender-mainstreamed or deliver stand-alone interventions on gender

equality. The examples below are selected results from stand-alone programmes targeting women

empowerment, gender equality and reduction of gender-based discrimination. Furthermore,

throughout the present chapter, examples refer to relevant results that highlight the work the EU

does, elati g to all SDG a eas, fo the ad a e e t of o e s e po e e t a d to edu e

inequalities between men and women.

Although gender discrimination is illegal and condemned in

India,

many practices, such as female

feticide, child marriage, sexual and physical abuse of women and the general devaluation of girls are

commonplace in parts of the country. Moreover, girls and women are often afraid to report abuse,

such as harassment, sexual abuse, rape, dowry-related abuse, domestic violence and being forced to

undergo sex-determination tests and sex-selective abortion. They fear that taking legal action will

tarnish their image in society; also, they feel unsafe taking action against the perpetrators of

violence. Mana Bidda, a three-year EU-funded intervention, aimed to eliminate discriminatory

practices in Kadapa

–

the second-largest city in the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh

–

through

grass-roots education and legal help. The objective of this intervention was to reduce gender-based

discrimination and improve the quality of life of girls and women. Activities included:



changing entrenched mindsets on gender roles;

sensitising professionals on the topics of discrimination and female infanticide;

improving the employability of girls and young women;

advocacy for stringent implementation of discrimination laws and the creation of

workshops;

centres and groups for women and children.



In its three years of implementation, the intervention provided legal, medical and psychological

support to one million girls and women.

In collaboration with several UN agencies, the EU implemented the Joint Rule of Law Programme in

the Federal Republic of

Somalia.

The initiative provided significant capacity building support to the

justice sector and contributed to the establishment of independent, accountable and efficient justice

institutions capable of addressing the needs of the people of Somalia and delivering justice for all.

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:42017Y0630(01)&from=EN.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The support covered several areas of rule of law and paid special attention to gender-sensitive

issues. It contributed to:



e isi g la s a d poli ies to e su e i lusio of ge de e ualit a d p ote tio of o e s

rights;

a i g o e s legal ights

i t odu i g ge de

-responsive legal aid services into the

f a e o k of the atio al legal aid poli to e su e o e s full a ess to justi e i oth

criminal and civil cases;

increasing capacity of legal staff (judges, prosecutors and defenders) in addressing cases of

sexual and gender-

ased iole e a d iolatio of o e s so ioe o o i ights;

strengthening capacities of legal aid centres and legal aid NGOs to better counsel women;

increasing police knowledge on human rights, protection of civilians, access to legal aid and

prevention of sexual and gender-based violence.



During its three years of implementation, more than 1 500 women received legal aid in Puntland

State.

The EU is running more than 50 bilateral and regional programmes that have a gender perspective in

the

Eastern Partnership

region. The bilateral programmes cover a wide range of sectors, with the

most common areas of intervention being provision of access to finance and combating violence

against women. In

additio , se e al p og a

es fo us o

o e s ep ese tatio , o e s

employment, gender stereotypes in education and women in business. The EU is, for instance,

supporting women-led SMEs across the Eastern Partnership region. This programme helps to

provide access to finance and the know-how needed for business growth. From 2015 to mid-2017,

more than EUR 36.3 million was provided to 6 partner banks in the region. More than 570 women

have benefited from access to know-how, including through 246 advisory projects in the region.

Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.3

Scores are assigned for the inclusion of gender in the objectives of new EU actions: a score of G2 is

awarded where gender is the principal objective, and a score of G1 is given where gender is a

significant objective. GAP II (2016–2020) has a target of 85 % of new programmes to be awarded G1

or G2 status by 2020.

3.3 Proportion of EU-funded cooperation and development initiatives promoting gender equality and

o e s e po er e t

( )

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2014–2018

Target

31.3 %

51.6 %

58.8 %

65.9 %

68.4 %

54.0 %

85 % of new actions

to score G1 or G2 by

2020

Level 3 of the EU RF focuses on budgetary commitments by the European Commission.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Progress has been made towards achieving the 2020 target, although improvement was at a slower

pace in 2018, perhaps because the quick gains were made initially. Difficult sectors, such as

environmental protection, urban development and migration, require different approaches to

become fully inclusive for women and men. The same is true for complex new aid modalities, such as

blending operations and private sector partnerships. The work on preparing new guidance for these

new challenges contributes towards achievement of the 2020 target.

2.4.6. SDG 6 Clean water and sanitation

Too many people still lack access to safely managed water supplies and sanitation facilities. Water

scarcity, flooding and lack of proper waste water management also hinder social and economic

development. Increasing water efficiency and improving water management are critical to balancing

the competing and growing water demands from various sectors and users (

Improved access to water, sanitation and hygiene

EU RF indicator 1.9 Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services (2015)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

–

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

Urban:

46.2 %

85.1 %

Rural:

–

54.8 %

All:

23.7 %

71.2 %

–

57.1 %

–

65.4 %

–

94.2 %

–

54.9 %

–

61.2 %

88.8 %

76.9 %

95.8 %

95.5 %

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg6.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU RF indicator 1.10 Proportion of population using safely managed sanitation services (2015)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

–

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

Urban:

–

43.2 %

Rural:

–

34.6 %

All:

–

39.3 %

32.8 %

–

55.3 %

22.4 %

50.7 %

77.9 %

–

28.3 %

41.5 %

–

19.5 %

47.3 %

44.7 %

50.4 %

26.6 %

63.6 %

87.4 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.8

723 000

individuals had access to improved drinking water source and/or sanitation facility with EU

support

Through a budget support programme, the EU assisted the government of

Bolivia

in the

implementation of a national plan for water and sanitation. In 2015 and 2016, important progress

was made at policy level: several sector laws, regulations and manuals were issued on water quality

and efficiency, waste water and solid waste. In addition, institutional capacity was addressed: the

Ministry of Environment and Water information system was upgraded with a regionally established

platform. The intervention also enabled the installation of new water connections in peri-urban

areas, giving 188 000 individuals access to improved supplies of drinking water.

Under the framework of the EU Asia Investment Facility (AIF), a blending initiative in

Bangladesh

suppo ti g the go e

e t s effo ts

to reduce the dependency of its fast-growing capital city on

rapidly diminishing underground aquifers by shifting to surface and less polluted water sources.

Under the same initiative, the EU is facilitating water connection and supply to low-income

communities in Dhaka. The project aims to:



support the efforts of

Dhaka s pu li

services to low-income communities;

ate a d sa itatio se i es p o ide to e te d its



provide training and support to local communities to ensure bill payment and maintenance;

st e gthe the se i e p o ide s i te al apa it th ough

training programmes for

managers and assistance to develop a comprehensive financial model.

The main investment is directed at installation of water supply secondary distribution networks,

meters and semi-collective water points in areas of Dhaka. In 2016–2017, the initiative provided

access to improved sources of drinking water for 50 000 individuals.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

2.4.7. SDG 7 Affordable and clean energy

Access to affordable, reliable and modern energy for all has come one step closer due to recent

progress in electrification

–

particularly in the LDCs

–

and improvements in industrial energy

efficiency. However, national priorities and policy ambitions still need to be addressed to put the

world on track to meet the energy targets for 2030 (

Improved access to energy for all and increased energy efficiency and renewable energy

generation

EU RF indicator 1.11 Proportion of population with access to electricity (2016)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

Urban:

76.1 %

97.0 %

Rural:

22.8 %

76.0 %

All:

43.0 %

87.4 %

93.4 %

86.7 %

97.2 %

97.8 %

83.2 %

100 %

85.1 %

80.3 %

94.7 %

91.1 %

46.5 %

100 %

98.5 %

98.4 %

99.0 %

99.5 %

98.8 %

100 %

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg7.

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU RF indicator 1.12 Renewable energy share of the total final energy consumption (2015)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

17.5 %

70.2 %

5.4 %

28.4 %

14.1 %

27.6 %

13.5 %

11.9 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicators 2.9 and 2.10

16 853 000

individuals accessing electricity with EU support through new or improved access

7 300

megawatts of renewable energy generation capacity installed with EU support

The EU provided funds to support a national programme for the dissemination and installation of

biodigesters in rural and peri-urban areas of

Senegal.

A biodigester is a device that allows bacteria to

break down organic waste while, at the same time, producing biogas and a liquid effluent consisting

of organic fertiliser of very high quality. The aim of the national programme is to replace fuelwood

with biogas for cooking in households located in rural and peri-urban areas of Senegal. As of

December 2018, more than 3 000 biodigesters have been installed, able to provide renewable

energy to households and schools and biofertilisers to farmers and local producers.

The Re e a le e e g a d e e g effi ie

p og a

Jordan

concentrates on

implementation of the renewable energy and energy efficiency national targets as per the National

Energy Strategy for 2007–2020. This programme contributes to increasing the contribution of

renewable energy in the total energy mix and improving energy efficiency in the public sector. In the

last year, 200 megawatts of renewable energy generation capacity was installed and connected to

the electricity grid.

2.4.8. SDG 8 Decent work and economic growth

Globally, labour productivity has increased and the unemployment rate has decreased. However,

more progress is needed to:



increase employment opportunities (especially for young people);

reduce informal employment and labour market inequality (particularly in terms of the

gender pay gap);

promote safe and secure working environments;

improve access to financial services to ensure sustained and inclusive economic growth (



Promote an economic transformation that creates decent jobs and increases productive capacity

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg8.

100

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU RF indicator 1.13 Annual growth rate of real GDP per capita (2016)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

−2.7

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

1.3 %

−1.6

1.2 %

6.0 %

3.8 %

0.6 %

1.3 %

EU RF indicator 1.14 Proportion of employed population below the international poverty line aged 15+ (2017)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

Total:

36.6 %

9.2 %

Female:

37.8 %

9.4 %

Male:

35.5 %

9.1 %

6.0 %

12.8 %

4.0 %

3.7 %

3.9 %

0.0 %

1.9 %

14.2 %

4.2 %

3.8 %

3.9 %

0.0 %

5.0 %

13.2 %

4.1 %

3.7 %

3.9 %

0.0 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.11

67 000

jobs were supported or sustained by the EU

India,

the Goi g g ee p oje t o ked

towards improving economic competitiveness of the

Indian textiles industry and promoted the income and well-being of textile artisans in six districts in

the states of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The intervention had a significant focus on women and

generated income opportunities that brought women into prominent roles in their communities.

The EU provided support to set up artisan organisations, common interest groups and cooperatives

with a view to:



enabling financial inclusion;

improving business performance;

developing a collective voice to negotiate on pro-artisan policies;

supporting the adoption of eco-friendly processes and technologies at community level.

101

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Textiles artisans and SMEs received training in environment-friendly practices and had access to

finance and services (particularly for women) to set up efficient eco-friendly businesses. Among the

achievements of this intervention, 1 850 jobs were secured (1 200 for women and 650 for men).

The Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas (DCFTAs) between the EU and

Georgia, Moldova

and

Ukraine

help SMEs to take advantage of trade opportunities. A credit line offered by the EU and

the EBRD helps SMEs access finance for investments through local partner financial institutions.

Technical assistance is also offered to help businesses better define those investments and improve

their international competitiveness. Investments can take a wide range of forms, from upgrading

equipment and technologies to introducing new quality, health or safety standards. Among the

results achieved by this intervention, 9 000 direct jobs were supported.

Job creation and blending operations

Blending operations can contribute to job creation through large infrastructure projects (i.e. in

energy, transport and water sectors) that can generate direct employment during the construction

period, facilitating access to finance for MSME creation and growth. For example, the blending

operations launched through the Neighbourhood Investment Facility successfully provided 168 loans

to SMEs in

Georgia

and

Moldova,

where a total of 9 450 jobs were sustained.

Improved economic governance, business environments, contribute to scaling up private and

public investments, including addressing the MSME financing gap

EU RF indicator 1.15 World Bank Doing Business distance to frontier score* (2017)

Europe

and

Central

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Middle

East and

North

Africa

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

World

East Asia

and Pacific

Northern

America

Southern

Asia

61.56

65.30

74.23

58.04

57.42

80.91

50.43

53.64

* The dista e to f o tie s o e

represents the distance of an economy from best performance observed (the frontier) on

the Wo ld Ba k s Doi g Busi ess topi s

= lowest performance; 100 = frontier).

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicators 2.12 and 2.13

countries were supported by the EU to strengthen investment climate

4 900

firms had access to financial services with EU support

1 163 000

individuals had access to financial services with EU support

The EU supports the efforts of the government in

Nepal

to reduce poverty and to stimulate trade-

led economic growth. The EU intervention has a triple focus:

102

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



capacity building of the Ministry of Commerce and related agencies for trade policy

formulation and implementation, intra- and inter-ministry coordination, trade negotiations

and trade promotion, as well as enhanced links and consultation with the private sector,

development of a quality infrastructure and improved regulatory framework and food safety

system, as well as better test and certification services in the private sector for safer

products to consumers,

development of value chains to increase production, employment, productivity and exports

of agriproducts, particularly coffee.



Rwanda

large parts of the population rely on the informal economy for their livelihoods, and

women and young people especially are excluded from reasonably paid formal employment. The

programme on youth employability in the informal sector contributed to the elimination of youth

poverty (among those aged 16–30) by:



increasing their technical, financial and entrepreneurial skills;

ensuring their access to information and financial and business services;

facilitating their collaboration in voluntary savings and loans associations, cooperatives and

trade unions;

enabling them to take steps towards the regularisation or formalisation of their activities.



The intervention provided technical training (tailoring, arts and crafts, agriculture production) and

coaching on cooperative formation and management. Two thousand young people had access to

financial services (microfinance institutions, mobile financial services) with EU support.

The Wo e i usi ess p og a

e helps o e

-led SMEs to access the finance and the know-

how they need to grow. The programme combines credit lines with a first-loss risk cover and

technical assistance with business advisory consulting and coaching. The current EU contribution of

EUR 4.8 million leverages a total investment of EUR 54.3 million. Projects in

Armenia, Azerbaijan

and

Moldova

provide tailored support to SMEs in rural regions, while in

Georgia

a project targets civil

society engagement in implementation of the DCFTA. The intervention is designed to promote and

suppo t o e s e t ep e eu ship a d, o e oadl , o e s pa ti ipatio i usi ess i the

Eastern Partnership countries by facilitating access to finance as well as non-financial business

development services. In the period 2016–2017, more than 2 300 women-led SMEs received loans

(total value EUR 21.6 million).

103

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.5

3.5 Amount of the EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance contributing to

strengthening investment climate

(EUR)

2018

1. Investment climate

–

support to the six drivers: business environment, political stability,

macroeconomic stability, governance/rule of law, human development and innovation

Commitment

Payment

4.7 billion

3.4 billion

No target

2. Investment climate

–

support to key driver: business environment

Commitment

Payment

1.8 billion

1.1 billion

Target

Investment climate covers a wide range of factors that determine whether an investment is likely to

happen in EU partner countries. The term investment climate is used as a broad concept to be

understood from the perspective of a prospective investor.

Promote trade and regional integration

EU RF indicator 1.16 Export of goods and services as a percentage of GDP (2016)

Europe

and

Central

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Middle

East and

North

Africa

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

World

East Asia

and Pacific

Northern

America

Southern

Asia

28.5 %

28.3 %

41.7 %

21.4 %

37.8 %

13.6 %

23.9 %

18.1 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.14

quality schemes were adopted by economic operators with EU support

Coffee cultivation started in

Nepal

in the late 1970s but has experienced considerable growth with

expanding internal and international markets: production is now 30 times greater than in 2008. The

EU assisted the National Tea and Coffee Development Board in drawing up a five-year strategic plan

to improve productivity, quality, marketing and exports. The EU also contributed to setting out

standard requirements for organic green coffee (Arabica)

–

from farming the product and

standardising the production process to handling and packaging the beans

–

that were approved by

104

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology. The standard follows the principles of organic

production and processing of green coffee and is benchmarked against existing international

standards, including Global Gap, National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia, Certified

Organic, Fairtrade, EU Organic Farming and others.

Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicators 3.6, 3.7 and 3.8

An important milestone in the implementation of the EIP was reached in 2018, with the entire

guarantee fully allocated.

For the projects approved in 2018, EU grants and guarantees are expected to mobilise around 11

times more in private and other public investments into green growth and decent jobs, empowering

local businesses, developing liveable and sustainable cities and infrastructure, empowering women

and youth and protecting the environment. For each euro granted by the EU, the financial

institutions concerned will invest approximately EUR 4, and the mobilisation of private financing will

leverage over EUR 5. Expanding the use of innovative financial instruments, such as the EFSD

guarantee, multiplies the private financing that can be mobilised for development objectives.

3.6 Leverage of EU blending and guarantee operations financed by the EU international cooperation and

development assistance

2014

Blending

Guarantees

2015

14.1

–

2016

9.4

–

2017

11.7

–

2018

9.55

2018*

Target

a) Investment

leverage ratio

b) Total eligible

financial

institution

financing

leverage ratio

Private

financing

leverage ratio

15.5

–

11.1

12.1

Blending

9.2

9.5

3.7

7.6

4.8

4.2

target

Guarantees

Blending

Guarantees

–

2.3

–

2.2

–

0.7

–

0.9

–

3.62

2.46

5.4

7.39

* Leverage indicator combining blending and guarantees (for instruments managed by the European Commission).

In 2014, on adopting the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, the EU committed to maintain at least

its current level of support to trade facilitation over a five-year period (2014–2019), primarily

through regular EU aid channels. Starting from the signature of the agreement, this amounts to

EUR

illio o e fi e ea s, o o e o e thi d of de elopi g ou t ies esti ated eeds. The

amounts committed and payments made up to 2018 are shown below (indicator 3.7) along with the

proportion contributing to aid for trade directed at the LDCs (indicator 3.8).

105

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

3.7 Amount of EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance contributing to trade

facilitation

(EUR)

( )

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2014–

2018

204.2

million

210.1

million

Target

Commitment

9.6 million

1.3 million

57.0

million

39.4

million

96.2

million

10.2

million

40.1

million

54.2

million

Payment

73 million

33.6

million

Maintain the

current level

commitment

3.8 Proportion of EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance contributing to aid for

trade directed at the LDCs

2018

36.1 %

Target

No target

Meet the specific needs of youth, particularly young women and girls, by increasing quality

employment and entrepreneurship opportunities

EU RF indicator 1.17 Proportion of youth (aged 15–24 years) not in education, employment or training (2016)

This corresponds to interventions using the DAC Purpose Code 33120, not including broader interventions, encoded under different DAC

Purpose Codes, which comprise trade facilitation components.

106

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.15

138 000

people have benefited from institution- or workplace-based VET/skills development

interventions supported by the EU

The EU has supported young people in

Syria

by promoting equitable access to quality learning for

vulnerable children and adolescents who are internally displaced or are out of school. With the

support of the EU, a total of 13 000 young people benefited from institution- or workplace-based

VET/skills development interventions, and more than 1 000 young people were supported with seed

funding to implement their social and business entrepreneurship projects in Damascus and Rural

Damascus.

India,

the EU fi a ed the I easi g e uita le a ess to li elihoods a d e plo e t fo people

with disa

ilities

programme. This initiative applied a targeted approach and assessed the needs and

skill sets of identified persons with disabilities on a one-to-one basis. Regular counselling was

provided to persons with disabilities and parents lacking confidence in their abilities to guide their

children in relation to available employment or livelihood opportunities. Sign language interpreters

and/or translators were arranged at all stages, especially during needs assessment, training periods,

job interviews and round table meetings with local banks and finance institutions. Persons with

disabilities were supported with referral services, assistive devices/technologies, seed money and

self-employment kits. The training providers and job providers were sensitised through training on

disability equality, accessibility and inclusion. During the first two years of implementation, more

than 3 500 persons with disabilities (1 300 women and 2 200 men) successfully completed vocational

training. Of those trained, a total of 2 400 persons with disabilities (74 %) were supported with

placements and obtained wage employment (1 270 men and 460 women) or undertook self-

employment (390 men and 280 women).

2.4.9. SDG 9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Steady progress has been made in the manufacturing industry. To achieve inclusive and sustainable

industrialisation, competitive economic forces need to be unleashed to generate employment and

income, facilitate international trade and enable the efficient use of resources (

Support the development of sustainable, low-emission, interconnected and secure mobility and

transport networks

EU RF indicator 1.18 Passenger and freight volumes on roads

(tonne-kilometres, billions)

(2016)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern and

south-

eastern Asia

Latin

America and

the

Caribbean

Europe and

northern

America

World

Oceania

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg9.

107

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Freight:

379

21 079

Passenger:

942

46 730

2 648

17 557

8 191

5 267

356

11 770

1 272

2 629

7 983

1 554

246

7 017

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.16

22 000

km of road was supported by the EU through construction, rehabilitation and maintenance

According to the World Bank (

), the total road network in

Mali

is 22 000 km long, comprises mostly

earth roads and is used most by trucks. The EU has contributed to maintenance of more than

12 000 km of roads in the country (4 600 km paved, 8 000 km dirt). During four years of support,

more than 1 600 jobs were created.

2.4.10. SDG 10 Reduced inequalities

Efforts have been made in some countries to reduce income inequality, to increase zero-tariff access

for exports from the LDCs and developing countries and to provide additional assistance to the LDCs

and SIDS. However, progress will need to accelerate to address growing disparities within and

between countries (

Reduce inequality of outcomes and promote equal opportunities for all

EU RF indicator 1.19 Growth rates of household expenditure or income per capita among the bottom 40 % of

the population (2014–2016)

https://datacatalog.worldbank.org/dataset/mali-roads.

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg10.

108

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.17

1.5 million

migrants, forcibly displaced people or individuals from host communities were protected

or assisted with EU support

–

including 100 000 supported through EUTF for Africa projects

I pa t e ship ith U es o, the EU i ple e ted a p oje t to gua a tee A ess to ualit i lusi e

primary and secondary education for refugees and IDPs in conflict affected areas of

Iraq

. The

intervention is making big efforts to build positive relations with government and non-government

stakeholders and to enhance interaction with both the Ministry of Education in the Kurdistan Region

of Iraq and the Ministry of Education of the Federal Government. Schools in project focus areas are

struggling to provide an appropriate context for learning. School buildings are generally in poor

condition and require renovation. This particularly applies to schools in areas where there has been

active conflict, which may have been targeted or used by armed groups. In addition, many schools

experience teacher shortages, especially qualified Syrian refugee teachers. The implementation

partners identified 50 focus schools and provided support to more than 26 000 refugees, IDPs and

returnees in refugee camps and host communities. A wide range of activities was implemented to

support education. To support student enrolment, there have been back-to-school awareness

activities, school-based events and engagement with traditional and political community leaders,

students and families. In addition, schools have been restored and furniture has been provided.

Water, sanitation and hygiene facilities have been improved, learning materials and textbooks have

been provided and 290 teachers have been trained in learner-centred pedagogy, teaching in crisis

contexts and psychosocial support for children who have experienced traumatic events.

In the framework of a broader programme on improving labour migration management and

governance in

Ethiopia,

the EU and ILO supported the Ethiopian government in its efforts to

109

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

efficiently and effectively assist returned migrant workers to access productive employment and

decent work. The intervention focused on individualised and rights-based reintegration assistance to

returnees, with a focus on vulnerable local communities (unemployed youth, people with disability,

women in vulnerable situations). In addition, the intervention helped service providers offer efficient

services to retu

ees a d st e gthe the ou t s s ste fo ei teg atio . Retu ees e e

accompanied through short-term vocational skills development activities to enable them to identify

their areas of interest and viable business fields in their locality. The ILO, in close collaboration with

regional technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, provided standardised

technical skills training to prepare returnees to establish sustainable livelihoods in different fields,

including:



poultry farming

beekeeping

animal husbandry

dairy production

metalwork

block production/construction

food preparation

horticulture

furniture making and garment production.

In addition, training was provided for those training future returnees in entrepreneurship and

motivational skills. During three years of implementation, the intervention reached more than

13 000 returnees and members of vulnerable local communities.

110

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Step up efforts to mitigate the impact of forced displacement and to promote the better

management of migration in partner countries in all its aspects

EU RF indicator 1.20 Number of refugees and asylum seekers of concern to the United Nations High

Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) by situation (mid-2018)

Asia (excl.

Middle

East)

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Middle

East and

North

Africa

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Europe

(with

Turkey)

World

Oceania

Northern

America

Total

refugees*:

18 474 000

Asylum

seekers:

2 955 000

3 536 000

58 000

324 000

2 710 000

381 000

5 722 000

5 743 000

108 000

36 000

118 000

219 000

725 000

494 000

1 255 000

*Total includes refugees and those in refugee-like situations.

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.18

migration management or forced displacement strategies or policies were developed or revised

with EU support

migration management or forced displacement strategies or policies were under implementation

with EU support

The Regional Development and Protection Programme (RDPP) for Syrian refugees and host

communities in

Iraq, Jordan

and

Lebanon

was a multi-contributor initiative led by the EU and

implemented between July 2014 and September 2018. Through a partnership approach, supporting

host governments, civil society, NGOs and UN agencies, the initiative combined development and

humanitarian approaches to provide longer-term solutions for refugees and host communities in

Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon. The RDPP succeeded in establishing an evidence base on the impact of

hosting refugees, the effect of displacement on living conditions and interlinkage between

protection and livelihoods. The programme contributed to improving the capacity of local actors to

uphold and protect the rights of vulnerable populations, especially in relation to sexual and gender-

based violence and child labour issues. The RDPP also helped refugees and host community

members prepare to enter the labour market, through various methodologies. Lastly, the advocacy

efforts of RDPP partners contributed to some positive policy changes in Jordan and Lebanon.

I olla o atio ith the U ited Natio s Offi e o D ugs a d C i e, the EU is suppo ti g the Glo al

a tio to p e e t a d add ess t affi ki g i pe so s a d the s uggli g of ig a ts i

ou t ies

across

Africa, Asia, eastern Europe

and

Latin America.

So far, the initiative has assisted seven

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countries to develop, amend or implement legislation on trafficking in persons and smuggling of

migrants.

2.4.11. SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities

Many cities around the world are facing acute challenges in managing rapid urbanisation. These

include ensuring adequate housing and infrastructure to support growing populations, confronting

the environmental impact of urban sprawl and reducing vulnerability to disasters (

Build ities resilie e to sho ks and

harness opportunities for low-emission and climate-resilient

economies

EU RF indicator 1.21 Direct economic loss in relation to global GDP, damage to critical infrastructure and

number of disruptions to basic services, attributed to disasters

The map shows direct economic loss in relation to global GDP only.

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.19

countries and cities developed/implemented climate change and/or disaster risk reduction

strategies with EU support

A budget support programme in

Bolivia

supported efforts to build institutional capacity for

enhancing resilience to climate change at local and municipal levels. Comprehensive diagnostics of

climate change situations were funded in the 35 targeted municipalities, and climate change

adaptatio pla s e e de eloped. I additio , si u i ipalities esta lished Mu i ipal U its fo Risk

Ma age e t

Unidad Municipal de Gestión de Riesgos)

which, as of December 2018, are fully

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg11.

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operational. The institutionalisation of these units is the first step towards implementation of a

comprehensive climate change strategy at municipal level.

In the north of

Lebanon,

the EU helped local authorities in selected municipalities to integrate

energy efficiency within strategic development and planning and adopt policies to set MEPS for the

construction sector. Another objective of the intervention was to empower local authorities in one

of the poorest and most underserved areas in Lebanon to improve their annual energy expenditures

and help them design and implement innovative strategies for energy saving both in public buildings

and at the household level. As an example of the measures adopted, energy-saving lighting installed

in the targeted municipalities achieved a 15 %

edu tio o lo al autho ities a ual udgets.

2.4.12. SDG 12 Responsible consumption and production

Decoupling economic growth from resource use is one of the most critical and complex challenges

facing humanity today. Doing so effectively will require policies that create a conducive environment

for such change, appropriate social and physical infrastructure and markets, and a profound

transformation of business practices along global value chains (

Promote resource efficiency and SCP

EU RF indicator 1.22 Domestic material consumption per capita

(tonnes)

(2017) and domestic material

consumption by GDP

(kg per constant 2010 USD)

(2016)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

Per capita:

4.07999

11.67906

By GDP:

2.50204

1.11821

1.34036

2.84341

2.06498

1.14701

0.65573

0.42223

11.42825

5.76382

18.60690

10.56362

28.01260

15.20531

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.20

6 500

MSMEs applied SCP practices with EU support

With the egio al i te e tio AL-Invest . , the EU ai s to oost the o petiti e ess of MSMEs

Latin America,

the private sector being both beneficiary and implementing partner. Implemented

in 18 countries and involving more than 110 business intermediary organisations from Europe and

Latin America, AL-Invest 5.0 is the fifth phase (2015–2020) of the flagship programme AL-Invest in

support of PSD in the region. Previous phases have promoted the internationalisation of thousands

of Latin American MSMEs. The initiative helps companies to strengthen their internal organisational

capacity and adopt a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, promoting processes of

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg12.

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integration, social inclusion, decent employment opportunities, gender entrepreneurship and

equality of interest. Encouraging association as a means of inclusion, it has set up a platform to allow

better coordination and exchange of experiences and best practices. So far, more than 29 000

MSMEs have benefited from this intervention, and among the many activities carried out, AL-

Invest 5.0 also made particular efforts to support companies to incorporate good environmental

management (e.g. waste and water management, reduction of carbon footprint, energy efficiency,

cleaner production). Since its inception, the intervention has trained and coached staff at more than

3 900 MSMEs, of which 500 have implemented SCP practices. AL-Invest is contributing to the

creation of a network of Latin American and European MSMEs and intermediary organisations to

ensure the continuation of joint working towards sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

2.4.13. SDG 13 Climate action

With global average surface temperature at 1.1 °C above the pre-industrial period, 2017 was one of

the three warmest years on record. Analysis by the World Meteorological Organization shows that

the five-year average global temperature from 2013 to 2017 was also the highest on record. The

world continues to experience rising sea levels, extreme weather conditions and increasing

concentrations of greenhouse gases. This calls for urgent and accelerated action by countries as they

implement their commitments to the Paris Agreement on climate change (

Implement the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement on climate change through coordinated and

coherent actions that promote resilience, reduce climate risk and contribute to reducing

greenhouse gas emissions

EU RF indicator 1.23 CO

emissions per unit of value added

(kg of CO

per constant 2010 USD)

(2016)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

0.3

0.2

0.26

0.28

0.37

0.19

0.33

0.25

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.21

18 376 000

tonnes of CO

e greenhouse gas emissions avoided with EU support

China,

the EU supported the national Strategy on green development through the intervention

S ali g up e e g effi ie

a d lea e p odu tio i s all a d ediu

-sized enterprises through

i teg ated solutio s a d g ee

edit . The o je ti e as to help SMEs i Shaa i egio a hie e

significant pollutant discharge reduction, energy saving and mitigation of carbon emissions by

improving their capacity to access green credit and to implement high- and medium-cost energy

efficiency and clean production measures. Staff at more than 560 SMEs were trained in energy

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg13.

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efficiency and clean production, and 20 financial institutions received training on green credit and

risk management concerning SMEs. The intervention succeeded in building a network of local

policymakers, SMEs, financial institutions and service providers that will bring long-term benefits to

all stakeholders. The intervention contributed by helping produce a reduction of 682 000 tonnes of

annual CO

e emissions.

Ethiopia,

the EU is funding the national biogas initiative

– the Biogas

dissemination scale-up

p og a

e –

aimed at improving the living standards of rural Ethiopians and promoting the use of

clean and renewable biogas. This action supports government efforts to emphasise the role of

renewable energy in the socioeconomic development and transformation of the country through the

provision of a sustainable, reliable, affordable and quality energy service for productive sectors and

citizens. As of December 2018, about 88 % of the energy used by Ethiopian households is provided

by biomass, mostly wood fuel and agricultural residues for cooking. Further, the country has the

most cattle in the African continent, representing huge potential for biomass production and

exploitation. Therefore, scaling up the transition to biogas as a renewable and clean energy option

–

especially for rural areas and small towns

–

is a key government goal and an economic opportunity

for the private sector to seize. In the first year of implementation, the intervention installed 1 100

biodigesters that contributed to 3 300 tonnes of annual CO

e emission reduced.

Blending facilities in climate action

The majority of EU blending projects are in the energy and transport sectors, where climate change

adaptation is mainstreamed. A specific climate change window is set up to attract more public and

private financing for low-carbon and climate-resilient investments. Blending operations can support

energy efficiency projects, as well as small-scale renewable energy investments, by providing loans

to financial institutions and helping financial intermediaries improve their capacity to appraise and

finance projects related to energy efficiency and renewable energy.

2.4.14. SDG 14 Life below water

Advancing the sustainable use and conservation of the oceans continues to require effective

strategies and management to combat the adverse effects of overfishing, growing ocean

acidification and worsening coastal eutrophication. Expansion of protected areas for marine

biodiversity, intensification of research capacity and increases in ocean science funding remain

critically important to the preservation of marine resources (

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg14.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Promote the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems and the sustainable management of

ocean resources

EU RF indicator 1.24 Coverage of protected areas in relation to marine areas (2017)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

15.9 %

19.2 %

1.2 %

0.4 %

3.6 %

13.1 %

–

13.7 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.22

2 700

marine areas were under protection with EU support

In the

Caribbean,

the EU is supporting civil society and micro and small enterprises to conserve

marine and coastal biodiversity while developing sustainable and resilient livelihoods. The

i te e tio Po e i g i o atio s i i il so iet a d e te p ises fo sustai a ilit i the Ca i ea

focuses on five interlinked components:



capacity building of civil society,

documenting cases of innovation,

a regional innovation programme for biodiversity conservation and resilience,

developing and strengthening SMEs through capacity building and mentoring to sustainably

use marine and coastal resources to deliver economic, environmental and social co-benefits,

as ell as to li ate-p oof e te p ises,

a strategy for advocacy, strengthening the voice of civil society at local, national and/or

regional levels to ensure better decision-making in governance and management of marine

and coastal resources.



Having started in 2017, the intervention now provides support to six Marine Protected Areas and

marine managed areas in

Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Lucia

and

Saint

Vincent and the Grenadines.

2.4.15. SDG 15 Life on land

Protection of forest and terrestrial ecosystems is on the rise, and forest loss has slowed. That said,

other facets of terrestrial conservation continue to demand accelerated action to protect

biodiversity, land productivity and genetic resources and to curtail the loss of species (

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg15.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Support the conservation and sustainable management and use of natural resources, biodiversity

and ecosystems

EU RF indicator 1.25 Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered

by protected area (2018)

Sub-

Saharan

Africa

Northern

Africa and

western

Asia

Central

and

southern

Asia

Eastern

and south-

eastern

Asia

Latin

America

and the

Caribbean

Europe

and

northern

America

World

Oceania

Terrestrial:

42.0 %

46.7 %

Freshwater:

45.6 %

43.5 %

18.7 %

21.9 %

37.9 %

39.9 %

31.4 %

55.2 %

21.8 %

29.0 %

43.0 %

39.1 %

36.6 %

62.9 %

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.23

6 936 000

hectares of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems were under protection with EU support

155 000

hectares of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems were under sustainable management

with EU support

Tanzania,

the EU worked with the Belgian Development Agency on wetland management and

institutional strengthening of the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority. The intervention

succeeded in introducing sustainable management practices over an area of 135 000 hectares. It

also helped to establish two wildlife management areas and five village-based forest reserves.

Cambodia,

the EU worked with local NGOs on fisheries resources to improve the livelihoods of

fishers and communities in Mekong and Tonlé Sap. The intervention established platforms for

regular dialogue between fishing communities and NGOs to increase the impact of advocacy and law

enforcement in the fisheries sector. By working with local communities, NGOs identified some

important lessons learned.



Good cooperation with competent national and subnational authorities and expert officials

is beneficial for intervention success.

The participation of network members and communities in management of fisheries

resources is key to creating ownership and improving sustainability.

The development of alternative livelihoods, through the provision of small grants and

establishment and strengthening of self-help groups, helps mitigate pressure on fisheries

resources.



The intervention also established two fish conservation areas with a total size of 160 hectares.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.4

The EU has made the commitment to step up its contribution to averting global biodiversity loss by

2020 (as part of the EU Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020). The DCI Regulation contains a

commitment to contribute to the objective of addressing at least 20 % of the EU budget to a low-

carbon and climate-resilient society (2014–2020).

3.4 Amount and share of the EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance

contributing to: a) protecting biodiversity, b) climate change (adaptation and mitigation), c) combating

desertification and d) protecting the environment (Aid to Environment)

The figures below show the share of EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance.

2014–

2018

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Target

a) protecting

biodiversity

b) climate change

(adaptation and

mitigation)

c) combating

desertification

( )

d) protecting the

environment (Aid

Environment)

( )

2.5 %

4.3 %

3.6 %

7.7 %

6.9 %

5.2 %

DCI Regulation

commitment to

contribute to the

objective of

addressing at least

20 % of the EU

budget to a low-

carbon and climate-

resilient society

(2014–2020)

11.4 %

12.6 %

24.1 %

24.7 %

24.0 %

20.3 %

–

4.1 %

–

29.0 %

2.4.16. SDG 16 Peace, justice and strong institutions

Many regions of the world continue to suffer untold horrors as a result of armed conflict or other

forms of violence that occur within societies and at the domestic level. Advances in promoting the

rule of law and access to justice are uneven. However, progress is being made in terms of

regulations to promote public access to information, albeit slowly, and in strengthening institutions

upholding human rights at the national level (

Disaggregation according to combating desertification was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF.

Disaggregation by Aid to Environment was introduced in the 2018 revision of the EU RF.

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg16.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Support accountable and transparent institutions, inclusive, transparent and credible elections

and a pluralist democratic system

EU RF indicator 1.26 Voice and Accountability score (as measured by the World Bank Worldwide Governance

Indicators)

EU RF indicator 1.27 Government Effectiveness score (as measured by the World Bank Worldwide Governance

Indicators)

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.24

countries were supported by the EU to conduct elections and/or improve their electoral process

Zambia,

the EU supported the implementation of elections held on 11 August 2016. Actions were

taken to improve, systematise and professionally engage Zambian CSOs in civic and voter education

and domestic observation, with the aim of supporting independent election results and increasing

o e s ep ese tatio i ele ted positio s at atio al a d lo al le els. Co

u i atio a d pu li

outreach campaigns played a key role in this election.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.25

government policies were developed or revised with CSO participation through EU support

The EU helped civil societies in highly vulnerable areas of the

eastern

and

central Indian states

thei o k o i dige ous people s a ess to a d a age e t

of their natural resources: water, land

a d fo ests. The p og a

e Buildi g g ass oots i il so iet fo effe ti e ess a d t a spa e

supported 50 CSOs to strengthen internal governance, organisation and technical capacity to protect

and advocate better for the interests of rural and tribal communities. Through dialogue with the

government, public consultations and hearings, meetings and media involvement, in 2017 CSOs

participated in the adoption of an act (passed in one of the states, Madhya Pradesh) that protects

the rights of landless people, particularly women. CSOs have also strongly contributed to a water

security bill that stresses water conservation by maintaining water resources and their ecological,

biological and hydrological diversity, while empowering citizens by ensuring them the right and

access to clean drinking water. Madhya Pradesh has also assured a Right to Water act. The CSOs are

engaging with central government to formulate a national water security act, which is to be followed

by all states.

Continued promotion of the universal values of human rights for all, including support for enabling

space for civil society

EU RF indicator 1.28 Existence of independent national human rights institutions in compliance with the Paris

Principles

A a edited

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.26

42 000

victims of human rights violations directly benefited from assistance funded by the EU

The registration of birth is fundamental to the realisation of a number of rights and practical needs.

In the region of Nugal in Puntland,

Somalia,

obtaining a birth certificate is hampered by poor

registration services. Without a certificate, an individual may be denied access to crucial government

services in adulthood. Possession of birth certificates can ease access for marginalised children to

education, health and other social services. As at the end of 2018, the EU has supported inclusion

and protection for marginalised individuals by providing 5 500 children with a birth certificate.

Support provision of fair justice, including access to legal assistance

EU RF indicator 1.29 Rule of Law score (as measured by the World Bank Worldwide Governance Indicators)

(2017)

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.27

168 000

people directly benefited from legal aid interventions supported by the EU

Gambia,

a civic awareness campaign has been implemented to inform the public on civil rights

and access to conflict resolution/dispute settlement mechanisms. These mechanisms include justice-

related services provided by courts, customary dispute resolution resources, administrative agencies

and NGOs. In order to reach as many people as possible across a large number of communities,

awareness-raising activities included:



face-to-face meetings with village communities,

plays performed in local languages,

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



live music performances,

participation in local radio talk shows,

training sessions on law enforcement,

programmes to promote the rights of women and children.

The e as e e a atio ide foot all tou a e t ith A ess to justi e is ou ight as its the e,

officiated by the Gambia Football Federation; this drew thousands of young spectators. Merchandise

such as caps and T-shirts also played an important role in raising visibility of the campaign. In total,

with the support of the EU, the civic awareness campaign reached 32 000 people (19 000 men and

13 000 women).

Improved human security and democratic governance of the security sector, paying special

attention to countries in situation of fragility or affected by conflict

EU RF indicator 1.30 Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100 000 population (2015)

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.28

285 000

individuals directly benefited from EU-supported interventions that specifically aim to

support civilian post-conflict peacebuilding and/or conflict prevention

The EU is assisting

Lebanon

in its effort to implement a mine action strategy to reduce the threat of

cluster munitions and increase access to cleared land. The aims are to support the handover of

cleared areas to local populations and to prioritise socioeconomic development in south Lebanon.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Socioeconomic development is hindered by the presence, as a result of past conflicts, of minefields

and contamination by cluster bombs and other dangerous objects. This restricts access to land and

productive resources and prevents the construction of services, such as schools, parks and other

infrastructures that could benefit local communities. In addition, land contamination causes direct

and indirect damage to valuable agricultural land in an area where land use is crucial for livelihoods.

As of 2018, cleared land has been used for economic activities (e.g. agriculture) rather than social

activities. More than 32 000 individuals have benefited from the improvement of safety conditions:

600 individuals (300 men and 300 women) are direct beneficiaries, and 31 400 individuals are

indirect beneficiaries.

Investing in young people and strengthening youth engagement can be an important force in

tackling the rise of violent extremism. In order to target the root causes of the radicalisation of

young people from

Jordanian

and

Syrian

refugee communities, the EU supported skills development

for young people through basic life skills training in the northern and southern parts of Jordan.

Young people received greater exposure to the labour market and improved their ability to network,

communicate and debate. Through 40 professional skills training sessions, 5 500 young men and

women were provided support and capacity building in the governorates of East Ammam, Irbid,

Maan, Mafraq and Zarqa.

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.29

2 300

state institutions and non-state actors were supported on security, border management,

countering violent extremism, conflict prevention, protection of civilian population and human rights

–

including

710

supported through EUTF for Africa projects

Persons living in extreme poverty and with vulnerabilities (including disability, HIV/AIDs and

illiteracy) often do not benefit from economic and democratic development in the countries where

they live. In this context, an intervention in

Mozambique

aimed at improving resilience and inclusion

and reducing poverty among marginalised groups, in particular women and men with disabilities.

This supported CSOs, including those serving disabled persons, to contribute to the effective

implementation of the national Strategy on basic social security (covering health, education and

productive social action programmes) and to develop other drivers of resilience by empowering

individuals and their representative organisations to become agents of change. In this regard, the EU

supported 16 CSOs in their engagement with authorities and service providers to develop resilience

of marginalised groups and improve their access to social protection services.

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Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.9

3.9 Amount of EU-funded international cooperation and development assistance directed at fragile states

(billion EUR)

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2014–2018

Target

target

Commitment

1.424

2.831

4.970

3.879

2.977

16.082

Payment

2.495

2.274

3.208

3.494

3.330

14.802

2.4.17. SDG 17 Partnerships for the goals

SDG 17 seeks to strengthen global partnerships to support and achieve the ambitious targets of the

2030 Agenda, bringing together national governments, the international community, civil society,

the private sector and other actors. Despite advances in certain areas, more needs to be done to

accelerate progress. All stakeholders will have to refocus and intensify their efforts in areas where

progress has been slow (

Strengthened domestic and other revenue mobilisation, public expenditure management and

increased efficiency and effectiveness of public expenditure in partner countries

(

)

EU contributions to development progress in partner countries: EU RF indicator 2.30

countries were supported by the EU to strengthen revenue mobilisation, public financial

management and/or budget transparency

Since its approval in August 2018, the National Development Plan 2018–2022 constitutes the new

framework of the development policy of

Togo.

Prepared with the support of the EU and the UNDP,

the Plan has three strategic axes aiming to:



improve the business climate;

p o ote p i ate i est e t to fi a e the ou t

s st u tu al

reforms;

promote job creation and sustainable economic development.

Through a budget support programme, the EU is helping Togo to improve the strategic allocation of

resources, the management and transparency of public finances and the coherence of strategic and

budget programming.

Egypt,

the p og a

a d e ha ge of i fo

e E ha i g do esti esou e o ilisatio i Eg pt th ough a ette ta

atio s ste ai s at i easi g do esti esou e o ilisatio i o de to

e t e e ue as a p opo tio of GDP,

sou e .

Publication of

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg17.

No data are available for the related Level 1 indicator

Total go e

data for this indicator on the SDG database is expected in summer 2019.

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foster sustainable economic growth and income distribution by improving the design of tax policies

and international tax cooperation. Among the results of the programme, the updated Egyptian

Transfer Pricing Guidelines deserve mention: they introduced, among other innovations, an advance

pricing agreement system, guidance on risk assessment and the analytical processes for transfer

pricing analyses, in-line with OECD and G20 Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Actions 8–10.

Furthermore, communication has been strengthened thanks to the EU–Egypt Dialogue on Economic

and Financial Matters and the active participation of the EU in the Compact with Africa policy matrix,

which will serve as a bridge to sustain reform momentum.

Mainstreaming of policy priorities: EU RF indicator 3.10

3.10 Amount of EU-funded international cooperation and development qualifying as ODA

(billion EUR)

2018

Commitment

Payment

8.008

6.572

2.5.

The Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II) Performance Framework

EU aid to the Western Balkans and Turkey (WBT) region (

) is focused on the IPA II. In view of the

specific nature of the assistance provided in this region, a separate results framework

–

the IPA II PF

–

was developed, modelled on the EU RF. In 2018, data on aid to the WBT region were produced in

the first results reporting exercise against the IPA II PF, carried out in parallel to the fifth round of

EU RF results reporting.

2.5.1. Reporting from ongoing interventions

The results reporting exercise is designed to support performance reporting but also aims to

improve decision-making and promote learning. Reporting in the WBT region followed a similar

approach to that of other regions in that it included a sample of ongoing operations as well as

recently closed interventions. This is consistent with the

issio s ai of fu the i easi g data

coverage and obtaining more timely information.

2.5.2. Coverage and structure of the IPA II PF

The adoption of partnerships and the importance of ownership at country level are important

elements of cooperation around IPA II. For this reason, the results from the IPA II PF are presented

on a contribution basis, which means that they represent the combined efforts of a variety of

partners including the EU.

For the WBT region, the results reporting exercise was conducted using the same approach as in the

other regions. Performance data were collected and matched to the IPA II PF. The IPA II PF also uses

the same hierarchical approach as the EU RF, where Level 1 is designed for reporting on overall

progress in the partner countries and Level 2 is used for reporting on partner country results

supported by the EU. The IPA II PF reporting does not include a third level because indicators related

The WBT region covers Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Turkey.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

to o ga isatio al pe fo a e a e o e ed i othe epo ts, su h as the A ual a ti it epo t .

Another key difference in this region is that the IPA II PF levels are aligned to IPA II strategic

objectives.

As this is the first full results reporting exercise in the region, the data are limited to Level 2 of the

IPA II PF. The data captured cover a set of interventions funded by the EU through IPA I and IPA II

with a contribution above EUR 500 000. The projects are ongoing and completed interventions that

started since January 2014 and were under implementation for at least 12 months at the time of

project selection (June 2018).

2.5.3. Results-based management

As for other regions, the IPA II PF is part of a broader system supporting results-based management

through the whole project cycle. The system includes:



internal monitoring to define a robust intervention logic,

annual internal management reporting to identify potential difficulties and relevant

corrective measures,

external monitoring (results-oriented monitoring reviews) to provide independent advice on

improving project implementation.



2.5.4. Overview of key results reported for the IPA II PF

The total EU allocation of the interventions that reported against the IPA II PF indicators was

EUR 105 million. Of this amount, 66 % was allocated in the government and civil society sector and

22 % in the SME development sector. Table 2 contains the key results reported for 2018.

Table 2. IPA II PF Level 2

–

Aggregated results achieved with EU support

IPA II PF indicator

Number of legal/administrative acts/measures (incl. at Constitutional level) i)

adopted or ii) implemented with EU support with the objective of increasing

independence and impartiality and/or accountability and/or professionalism

and/or competency and/or efficiency of the national justice system

Number of a) judges, b) prosecutors and c) lawyers and justice sector staff trained

with EU support on European standards and EU

acquis communautaire

Number of initiatives led by civil society and supported by the EU

Number of public policies developed or revised with internal and external

consultations with EU support

Number of EU-funded assistance interventions reporting improvement of

compliance of border and security systems with EU/Schengen

acquis

communautaire

Results for

2018

2.3

2.4

2.11

2.12

1 661

968

530

2.16

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

2.18

Number of public policies to strengthen revenue mobilisation, public financial

management and/or budget transparency a) developed or b) under

implementation with EU support

Number of beneficiaries with access to financial services with EU support:

1 466

a) 1 410

b) 56

2 388

2.21

a) firms

b) individuals (households)

2.23

2.24

Number of jobs supported/sustained by the EU

Number of public policies promoting social inclusion a) developed/revised or b)

under implementation with EU support

Number of public policies promoting digitalisation a) developed/revised or b)

under implementation with EU support

Number of smallholders reached with EU-supported interventions aimed to

increase their sustainable production, access to market and/or security of land

2.31

2.32

608

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3. Implementation: Geographical overview

3.1.

African continent, sub-Saharan Africa and all ACP programmes

3.1.1. Sub-Saharan Africa

3.1.1.1. Introduction: Policy developments

EU–ACP relations

During 2018, EU–ACP cooperation continued actively on the basis of the Cotonou Agreement,

including highlight events such as the EU–ACP Joint Ministerial Council in Lomé, Togo, and two

meetings of the EU–ACP Joint Parliamentary Assembly in Belgium and Benin.

In view of the expiry of the Cotonou Agreement in 2020, negotiations for a renewed agreement with

the ACP countries were launched in September 2018. The new agreement will consist of a common

foundation and three regional partnerships with the ACP. The common foundation with all ACP

countries will be based on shared values and interests and aim at facilitating increased cooperation

at the international level. It will be complemented by the three tailored regional partnerships, which

will represent the core of the new agreement.

Africa–EU partnership

Following the successful fifth AU–EU

it, held i No e e

i A idja , Côte d I oi e,

implementation of the Abidjan Declaration, adopted at the summit, progressed during 2018 with its

four priorities:



investing in people

–

education, science, technology and skills development;

strengthening resilience, peace, security and governance;

migration and mobility;

mobilising investments for African structural sustainable transformation.

In particular, a Memorandum of Understanding on Peace, Security and Governance was signed

between HR/VP Mogherini and AU Chairperson Faki in May 2018. President Juncker also launched

the Africa–Europe Alliance for Sustainable Investment and Jobs in September 2018. The Alliance

envisages

a ohe e t e o o i st ateg that fo uses o Af i a s e o o i pote tial a d the

mobilisation of the private sector and aims at boosting investment and job creation in Africa. It is

full i li e ith Af i a s Age da

a d the Af i a Co ti e tal F ee

Trade Area. The EU

contributes by supporting and de-risking investment, and this complements action on the African

side to strengthen the business climate. The EIP

– the Allia e s fi a ial a k o e –

is on track to

deliver EUR 44 billion in leveraged investments in Africa and the Neighbourhood.

Peace and security remained at the heart of AU–EU cooperation in 2018. At the Abidjan Summit,

leaders agreed on the principle of developing a framework document which will consolidate the

peace and security partnership on a more structured basis. In January 2018, ministers declared that

cooperation in the field of peace and security during all phases of the conflict cycle is a central pillar

of the AU–EU partnership as new threats to international and regional peace and security

–

particular, the spread of terrorism, piracy, radicalisation, violent extremism, the illegal arms trade

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and organised crime

–

affect the stability of both continents. These threats require concerted efforts

in accordance with international law, including international human rights law. The AU–EU

Memorandum of Understanding on Peace, Security and Governance, signed in May 2018, puts the

institutional partnership on a solid and structured footing, taking into account the complexity of the

emerging threats and the need to address their root causes.

Both organisations reiterated their commitment to the implementation of the African Peace and

Security Architecture (APSA). In May, the 2017–2018 action programme of the African Peace Facility

(APF) was approved with a commitment of EUR 535 million, and EU Member States have agreed to

replenish the APF for the period 2019–2020. This instrument provides substantial financial support

to African-led peace operations, such as the G5 Sahel Joint Force, the AU Mission in Somalia and the

Ecowas Mission in Gambia, among others. Under its Early Response Mechanism, the APF helped

ensure stability and prevent violence. Examples include the Intergovernmental Authority on

Development-led High-Level Revitalization Forum in South Sudan and the South African

Development Community Preventive Mission in the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sapmil). The APF is also

helping to reinforce the APSA support programme over the period 2016–2019 (more than EUR 28

million). This covers activities related to conflict prevention and early warning, crisis management

and conflict resolution, including the African standby force and mediation, post-conflict

reconstruction and development and strategic issues, directly benefiting the AU Commission and

eight regional economic communities/regional mechanisms in the process. AU–EU cooperation

supports full operationalisation of the APSA, including the links with the AGA, in line with the AU

reform process.

The 14th AU–EU Human Rights Dialogue took place on 12 October 2018 in Brussels at the EEAS, co-

chaired by the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Stavros Lambrinidis, and AU

Commissioner for Political Affairs, Minata Cessouma Samate. The dialogue assessed progress

achieved and identified new deliverables. It was built on the momentum of the important fifth AU–

EU Summit in November 2017. The issues discussed included the following:



human rights developments in the EU and in Africa,

the death penalty,

torture,

business and human rights,

multilateral cooperation and the International Criminal Court (ICC),

EOMs,

gender issues,

trafficking,

youth participation in African and European politics.

The dialogue was preceded by a two-da

se i a o the the e of Youth ights to pa ti ipatio i

Africa and Eu

ope , hi h ought togethe

i il so iet ep ese tati es f o Eu ope a d Af i a.

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There were commitments made on a number of deliverables and areas for follow-up, including:



organising a conference on torture and encouraging more African countries to join the

Global Alliance on Torture;

promoting strong African participation in the 2019 World Congress Against the Death

Penalty;

ensuring robust follow-up activities to EU EOMs;

organising a launch event for the African pillar of the EU–UN Spotlight Initiative;

increasing engagement with youth representatives (African, European and diaspora youth

networks, platforms and organisations) and the AU–EU Youth Cooperation Hub to include

more young people in development projects.



On electoral observation, building on the EU–AU–UN language agreed at the Conference on

Electoral Observation the previous day, commitments were made to explore the possibility of

personnel exchange between EU and AU missions and joint visits to countries to present EU and AU

mission reports and recommendations.

3.1.1.2. Working better together: Development effectiveness and donor coordination

The EU and its Member States are committed to working jointly in the framework of the new

European Consensus on Development at country level to implement the 2030 Agenda for

Sustainable Development in sub-Saharan Africa, as a strategic engagement process framed by the

SDGs a d i suppo t of the pa t e ou t s Natio al De elop e t Pla .

In 2018, 10 Joint Programming Documents were in place in

sub-Saharan Africa: Comoros

(2015–

2020),

Côte d I oire

(2017–2020),

Ethiopia

(2017–2020),

Ghana

(2017–2020),

Kenya

(2018–2022),

Mali

(2014–2018),

Rwanda

(2014–2018),

Senegal

(2018–2023),

Togo

(2014–2020) and

Uganda

(2015–2019). Moreover, the process was well advanced in

Central African Republic.

Ghana,

Kenya

and

Senegal,

the launch of the joint strategies was accompanied by the signing of a joint

declaration with the respective governments. Of the 11 joint strategies, 5 had joint monitoring and

results frameworks (Comoros, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya and Senegal). In addition, there was an active

joint programming process in eight more countries: four with a joint analysis (Benin,

Burkina Faso,

Niger

and

Zambia)

and four with drafted roadmaps for joint programming (Burundi,

Cameroon,

Madagascar

and

Mozambique).

Apart from the EU and different Member States, the EIB and

associated countries like Switzerland or Norway are part of several joint programming approaches.

In the context of the Africa–Europe Alliance for Sustainable Investment and Jobs, country-tailored

Jobs and Growth Compacts

–

elaborated in order to translate EU key priorities into action on the

ground

–

are also discussed among Member States, governments, private sector and international

financial institutions to ensure coherence.

The EUTF for

Bêkou

is another example of close partner coordination; its strategic board comprises

EU Member States and other partner representatives, who together define the strategic orientation

of the trust fund in cooperation with the Central African authorities.

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The EUTF for Africa has remained a key implementing instrument for addressing the main challenges

of the

Horn of Africa, North Africa

and

Sahel and Lake Chad

regions. It complements traditional EU

development instruments, humanitarian aid and existing political dialogues. Through its governance

structure, the EUTF has continued to offer a framework for dialogue, collaboration and coordination

among contributors and partner countries. The EUTF for Africa has been instrumental in fostering

regional cooperation and facilitating contributor coordination in the Sahel region through the Sahel

Alliance. In coordination with other EU initiatives in support of the G5 Sahel and its Joint Force, the

EUTF for Africa has continued to support the Sahel Security College. In the Horn of Africa, the EUTF

has continued to promote coordination and invest significant resources in the implementation of the

Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF), a UNHCR-led initiative, strongly supported by

the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the World Bank and the EU. Moreover,

Uganda

and

Sudan

are pilot countries for the Humanitarian–Development Nexus, which aims to strengthen

the coordinated action between humanitarian and development efforts. In

Somalia,

the Partnership

Forum helped mobilise the international community to forge a consensus on stabilising and

p o oti g the de elop e t of this ou t , esulti g i , a o g othe thi gs, the EU s fi st-ever

budget support programme there (EUR 103 million).

The EU is a a ti e pa ti ipa t i the Coope ati g Pa t e s G oup fo PSD, he e atio al a d

regional policies and actions are discussed; this group was set up by the Common Market for Eastern

and Southern Africa (Comesa) Secretariat to organise cooperating partner meetings each year

alongside the annual policy meetings. For the East African Community (EAC), as of December 2018,

overall partner coordination is taking place through regular coordination mechanisms spearheaded

by the EU.

3.1.1.3 Working towards the SDGs

The EU subscribes to the 2030 Agenda and its 17 SDGs. Its external and development policies are

essential to support progress towards achieving them. The EU continues its efforts to boost

sustainable and inclusive growth in and with its partner countries and to contribute to prosperous,

peaceful, inclusive and environmentally sustainable societies in sub-Saharan Africa. Identifying

priorities under the framework of the SDGs is a key exercise in order to develop partnerships

di e ted to oth the ou t ies a d the EU s i te ests a oss the egio .

In West Africa, the EU has been proactive in achieving progress with regard to economic growth

(SDG 8) and any strategy to achieve it (diversification, regional integration, infrastructure

investment), which is a key interest to almost all the 17 countries located in that region. Aside from

this, education (SDG 4), industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) and access to affordable and

clean energy (SDG 7) were also part of the cooperation implemented in the region.

For the East Africa/Horn of Africa region, the EU has maintained its efforts in achieving economic

growth (SDG 8) in almost all the 11 countries. Besides this, actions have also been implemented in

relation to peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16). Hunger eradication (SDG 2) and education

access (SDG

also e ai ke halle ges fo hi h the EU s added alue is i st u e tal.

In Central Africa, actions in the field of peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16) were key for

almost all the countries in the region. In addition, economic growth (SDG 8) and access to health

services (SDG 3) have been main priorities in the area. Therefore, support in progressing towards

these SDGs has been, and will remain, part of the EU partnership with Central African countries.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Finally, in southern Africa, EU actions focused on progressing towards economic growth (SDG 8),

peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16) and access to health and food nutrition (SDG 3) in

espo se to the egio s ost p essi g halle ges.

Through the Pan-African Masters Consortium on Interpretation and Translation (Pamcit) project, the

EU helps to train highly qualified interpreters and translators in Africa to meet emerging needs.

Pamcit covers the period of December 2015 to November 2019 and is financed by the EU (EUR 3.6

million as part of the pan-African programme) in cooperation with the UN in Nairobi. Pamcit has

established a network of universities in Africa to act as centres of excellence to train interpreters and

t a slato s at aste s le el. As of De e e

, it has fi e pa t e u i e sities –

in Cameroon,

Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique and Senegal

–

covering the main regions of the continent.

In view of the progress achieved, the EU remains committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable

Development and to work together with partner countries to end all forms of poverty, fighting

inequalities and tackling climate change while also ensuring that no one is left behind.

3.1.1.4 Implementation

Bilateral cooperation including budget support

For all sub-Saharan Africa, the objective has been to implement the 2030 Agenda by optimising all

EU instruments in a coherent manner. The year 2018 saw the adoption of the new Africa–Europe

Alliance for Sustainable Investment and Jobs with four interconnected strands of action:



strategic investment and job creation,

investing in education and matching skills and jobs,

improving the business environment and investment climate across the continent,

strengthening economic integration and trade, within Africa and between Africa and the EU

(SDGs 8, 9, 10).

Cross-cutting themes such as inequality (SDG 10), gender (SDG 5) and resilience building have been

mainstreamed throughout. Programmes for private investment have been identified under the EIP

and the EFSD, and implementation of Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) has continued

through dialogue and support programmes.

The SDGs are also reflected in bilateral programmes in sub-Saharan Africa: in

Central African

Republic,

despite its fragility, there was positive progress, and the EU approved further budget

support to contribute to the reform of the security sector (SDG 16). The EUTF for

Bêkou

will

continue to support the health system, rural development, economic recovery and social

cohesion/reconciliation (SDGs 3, 8, 9, 16). In the

Democratic Republic of the Congo,

Commission

support to independent observation of elections by local civil society ensured a more transparent

and inclusive process and the Commission contributed to the response to the Ebola crisis (SDGs 3,

16). In

Cameroon,

a new programme enhancing economic competitiveness will contribute to job

creation, economic growth and implementation of the EPA (SDG 8). In

Zambia,

the EU has set up an

innovative financial instrument, ElectriFI (EUR 40 million), designed to unlock additional financing

from private investors to boost innovative energy services (SDG 7). With the GCCA, climate-smart

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

agricultural practices and technologies improve the resilience of communities (SDG 13), in particular

in countries such as

Malawi

that are experiencing extreme weather events.

West African countries have taken successful first steps in renewable energy. Isolated rural areas are

particularly targeted in countries like

Côte

d I oire,

Gambia, Ghana, Mali

and

Senegal

(SDG 7). The

EU continued to commit funds to agriculture and food security in West African countries. In 2018, a

total of EUR 158 million was approved for

Chad

(receiving the greatest share: EUR 130 million),

Mali

and

Senegal

and for other projects in

Mauritania

and

Nigeria

(SDGs 1, 2). More

than EUR 653 million

has been disbursed through budget support in

West

and

East Africa

(including by the EUTF for

Africa). The first two EU SDG contracts have been adopted in

Ghana

and

Senegal.

Côte d I oire,

top-up to the Good Governance and Development Contract was adopted (SDGs 8, 9, 10). Under the

EUTF in the

Horn of Africa,

the EU also launched its first-ever budget support to

Somalia

(EUR 103

illio as a espo se to the ou t s positi e efo t a k e o d. It ai s to suppo t fede alis i

the country as well as a much-needed currency reform, and to enable the government to provide

basic services to its population (SDGs 1, 2).

Mali,

the EU continues to implement an integrated

approach to security development, combining support to long-term reforms and actions to provide

basic services (SDGs 6, 16).

Ethiopia,

a i o ati e jo o pa t udget suppo t p og a

e was

launched, focusing on industrialisation, decent work and refugees (SDGs 8, 9, 10).

Regional cooperation (including continental Africa)

The

West Af i a o petiti e ess II

programme supports the development of selected value chains

with the highest job and export potential and will contribute to the overall business climate in

selected countries in the region (SDGs 8, 9, 10). In eastern and southern Africa, impetus has been

gi e to e o o i i teg atio th ough the lau h of the Ma kup p og a

e EUR

35 million),

aiming to improve market access for EAC countries (SDGs 8, 9, 10, 17). The region has benefited

from the EU-funded development of regional road corridors in Somalia (EUR 42 million). In the Great

Lakes, EUR 8 million was allocated to the development of cross-border infrastructure to help

sta ilise the egio . This a tio o ple e ts Se u e oss-border

social, economic and commercial

a ti ities i the G eat Lakes Regio EUR

20 million), focusing on improving installations and joint

management of the border posts (SDGs

, , ,

. The

-Af

i a P og a

e EUR

155.7

illio fo uses o edu atio , k o ledge a d skills de elop e t fo outh. The I t a-Africa

a ade i

o ilit s he e has ee e te ded fo a thi d phase EUR

20 million). In the area of

knowledge development, support for Africa Connect continues (EUR 30 million) (SDG 4).

In 2018 EU–Africa cooperation on science, technology and innovation grew stronger with the

development and consolidation of existing initiatives and the launch of new ones.



Progress was achieved in the EU–Africa Research and Innovation Partnership on Food and

Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture with the launch of 27 new projects, including

more than 160 African and European partners.

In the context of the AU–EU Research and Innovation Partnership on Climate Change and

Sustainable Energy, the first steps were taken towards the development of a future joint

European–African programme on renewable energy technologies.

Close cooperation continued within the framework of the second EDCTP programme and

other key multilateral initiatives, such as the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases. The

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

European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Commission also contributed to the development of the Global Antimicrobial Resistance

Research and Development Hub, launched on 22 May 2018.



Fu the to P eside t Ju ke s p oposal fo a e Af i a–Europe

Alliance for Sustainable

I est e t a d Jo s, a e i itiati e, the Af i a–Eu ope i o atio pa t e ship , as

launched with a view to linking the EU and Africa

s i o atio e os ste s th ough s e gies

with ongoing actions.

All Atla ti O ea esea h oope atio g e st o ge , ith a ag ee e t sig ed

the

Commission and Cabo Verde in November 2018 to foster marine research and innovation

cooperation between the two partners.



Cross-Border Cooperation (CBC) overview

The EUR

illio C oss- egio al ildlife o se atio p og a

e i easte a d southe Af i a

and the Indian Ocean supports anti-trafficking efforts by enforcing wildlife law and CBC in selected

transboundary ecosystems (SDG 17). The EU is also supporti

g Co esa s Regio al e te p ise

o petiti e ess a d a ess to a kets p og a

e EUR

10 million) and its

T ade fa ilitatio

programmes (EUR 63 million), with a focus on small-scale cross-border trade (SDGs 8, 9, 10). In 2018,

a new programme on border management of the Economic Community of Central African States was

approved (SDG 16). New investment projects will contribute to improving connectivity, such as the

cross-border transport infrastructure (SDG 9) and electrical interconnection between Cameroon and

Chad (SDG

. A e pa sio of the Fo est e os ste s i Ce t al Af i a E ofa p og a

e as

also approved (SDG 15).

3.1.1.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Overall humanitarian aid delivered to

sub-Saharan Africa

in 2018 amounted to EUR 659 million and

benefited more than 100 million people.

DG ECHO increased its funding of EUR 272.9 million in response to the new Sahel crisis arising from

the agro-pastoral lean season, tackling an unprecedented increase in severe acute malnutrition

cases in Chad as well as the conflict in the area where the borders of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger

meet. Adequate response was also provided for the north-east Nigeria crisis and other urgent crises

hole a a d Lassa fe e out eak, Ca e oo s A glopho e efugees a d floodi g . Suppo t fo the

Nexus process was reinforced along with efforts to help other contributors cope with crises, leading,

for instance, to the increase of funding (EUR 19.4 million) to Central African Republic.

eastern Africa

and in the

Great Lakes

region, the EU contributed a total of EUR 366.8 million to

respond to new and deteriorating situations linked both to increased conflicts and climate-induced

shocks in Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan. Adequate response was also provided to the

increased influx of refugees in all these countries and in Uganda, including through the Nexus

process with the EU and its Member States. In the Great Lakes, in addition to conflict triggering

large-scale internal displacement and a very dire food security situation, the Democratic Republic of

the Congo was confronted with two subsequent Ebola epidemics, one of which is still ongoing (as of

December 2018).

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

3.1.1.6. Crisis response and preparedness

With over 15 new crisis response programmes launched in sub-Saharan Africa in 2018, the IcSP

o t i utes to the EU s espo se to the u e ous ises i the egio .

Central African Republic,

the IcSP is supporting the peace process through the deployment of a

se io ad ise to the p eside t a d go e

e t, to uild thei egotiatio tea s ediatio a d

negotiation capacities and support the design of the process, and three new crisis response

initiatives working with different actors engaged in the peace negotiations. With four IcSP actions,

including two CBSD initiatives, the IcSP also provided considerable support to the security sector,

including for the gradual deployment of the national armed forces and the internal security services

and for strengthening trust and collaboration between communities and security forces. In addition,

other IcSP actions focused on supporting stabilisation of communities most at risk and the

investigations of the Special Criminal Court.

Sahel and Lake Chad,

the IcSP is supporting efforts in the fields of SSR, prevention of violent

extremism, migration and border management, dialogue and mediation across the region. This

i ludes: di e t suppo t to the Co ité de Sui i de l A o d i Mali; p

ogrammes to strengthen the

capacities of security actors in Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Nigeria to improve law enforcement,

better anticipate and manage crises and protect civilians; and initiatives on the demobilisation,

judicial treatment and reintegration of former Boko Haram combatants and associates in Cameroon,

Niger and Nigeria. In Mali, a CBSD action will improve security of the airport in Mopti and support

the provision of basic services with a view to restoring the presence of the state in central Mali.

In coastal

West Africa,

the implementation of new IcSP programmes, adopted in 2017, started in

Côte d I oi e a d Gui ea, ota l to ta kle the g o i g isk of adi alisatio a d suppo t the

authorities to better anticipate and respond to security risks. The IcSP is also engaged in initiatives

aiming to tackle conflicts and insecurity stemming from the exploitation of minerals and trafficking,

including in relation to the Kimberley Process, in a regional programme supporting civil society

capacities to anticipate and prevent electoral violence.

In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the deteriorating security situation in the

Democratic Republic of the Congo,

new IcSP actions were launched in 2018 in relation to the

elections and the crisis in the Kasaï region.

Kenya,

IcSP supports peacebuilding initiatives, promoting participation, and leadership in

particular, of young people and women and preventing the spread of violent extremism and

radicalisation.

Madagascar,

the IcSP helps prevent election violence and promote political stability throughout

the preparation and holding of elections. The IcSP was also engaged in

Zimbabwe

for the 2018

elections.

Somalia,

the IcSP continues to support consolidation of the Somali security architecture and was

instrumental in materialising EU support for the Somali Transition Plan, approved by the Somali

Partnership Forum in December 2017, specifically targeting capacity building of the security sector

and stabilisation activities. A first CBSD action will enhance the joint operational capacity of the

Ministry of Defence and the Somali National Army to secure their headquarters in Mogadishu and to

provide them with equipment, capacity building and training.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

3.1.2. South Africa

3.1.2.1. Introduction: Policy developments

In his first year in office, President Ramaphosa consistently focused on the economy and

the

fight

against corruption. The year 2018 has seen President Ramaphosa

focusing on

restoring international

and domestic confidence, avoiding further downgrades and setting out to tackle important

–

for instance, restructuring government departments,

drawbacks affecting South

Africa

s e o o

civil service and

state-owned enterprises,

ensuring proper policy implementation to foster

investment (notably in infrastructure) and delivering on health and education

–

all in a very

constrained macroeconomic environment.

The Job Summit and Investment Forum held in South Africa in 2018 confirmed President

Ra aphosa s o

it e t to oost i lusi e g o th, att act

investment and create jobs within a

context of global uncertainty. The first technical economic recession since 2009, slower global

economic growth, high levels of unemployment and worrisome debt levels complicate the task of

revamping the economy, adding pressure on the president ahead of elections in 2019. The president

reconfirmed the National Development Plan as the key guiding document for transformation. The

ANC will guide the policies of this administration via the recommendations agreed at the ANC 54th

National Electoral Conference, the ANC National

Executive Committee

Statement on the occasion of

the 107th anniversary of the party and the ANC

electoral

manifesto.

Throughout 2018, South Africa and the EU continued working together on science, technology and

innovation. This fruitful collaboration was recognised at the highest level by the seventh EU–South

Africa Summit in November 2018, when all major thematic priorities of EU research and innovation

cooperation were acknowledged (marine science, bioeconomy, nanotechnology and research

infrastructures) and many more were welcomed as targeted cooperation areas for the future (open

science, ICT and innovation). Ongoing national challenges, such as a number of specific trade policy

issues, were discussed frankly but did not detract from the good atmosphere and rapport

established between the EU presidents and President Ramaphosa.

A joint summit statement was also successfully concluded, emphasising the importance of

multilateralism and rules-based international order and including references to the WTO, Iran and

human rights as well as the Chemical Weapons Convention. Furthermore, President Ramaphosa

outlined his position on land reform and withdrawal from the ICC. Global challenges, including the

international aspects of migration, were also discussed.

3.1.2.2. Implementation, including development effectiveness, SDG focus and perspectives

Improving aid and development effectiveness in

South Africa

is e t al to the EU s de elop e t

cooperation. Country ownership is ensured by the alignment of individual project designs with the

National Development Plan 2030 and other results frameworks. Project design and implementation

aim at inclusive development partnerships that include, notably, complementarity of government

action with CSOs and the private sector, for example with the EUR

illio Edu atio fo

e plo a ilit p og a

e that as sig ed i

. Joi t p og a

i g is ot pu sued i South Af i a

due to the very limited number of EU Member States (three) with a formal development

cooperation programme with the South African government and the limited number of

de elop e t pa t e s i ol ed i offi ial de elop e t aid gi e the size of the ou t s e o o .

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However, regular coordination does take place. The EU delegation in Pretoria leads the EU

development cooperation counsellor meetings and participates in several partner working groups

(e.g. on gender, justice and agriculture) in which aid effectiveness principles are promoted, in

particular transparency and shared responsibility.

South Af i a s atio al pla s a d st ategies a e ell alig ed ith the SDGs. The EU-funded

actions

under the multi-annual indicative programme 2014–2020 are systematically linked to the

corresponding SDGs. This was the case in particular in 2018 with two newly approved programmes.

The Ge de e ualit a d o e e po e e t i South Af i a p og a

e o t i utes p i a il

to the progressive achievement of SDG 5 (gender equality) but also promotes progress towards

SDGs 8 (sustai

a le g o th a d e plo e t a d

i e ualit . As fo the Suppo t p og a

fo the t a sfo atio of the i e a d spi its se to i South Af i a , it o t i utes p i a il to

SDGs 1 (end poverty) and 10 (inequality) but also promotes progress towards SDGs 2 (sustainable

agriculture), 6 (water and sanitation) and 8 (sustainable growth and employment).

Beyond these two new programmes, the EU-funded cooperation with South Africa focuses on

several SDGs. For example, the EU supports more inclusive, equitable and quality education (SDG 4)

and employment prospects for South African youth. In particular, the EU is the only contributor in

South Africa involved in inclusive education for people with disabilities. This is an urgent issue that

South Africa must address as a signatory of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities, since, in practice, 0.5 million learners with special needs are excluded from schools.

Similarly, EU-funded cooperation continued to play a key role in 2018 on SDG 3 (health). With

technical assistance seed funding provided by the WHO, the EU helps the South African government

spearhead the path towards universal health coverage. As of 31 December 2018, less than 15 % of

citizens are covered by private medical insurance and are therefore exposed to an unregulated and

expensive private healthcare system; the other 85 % of the population is not covered by any

financial protection, relying on suboptimal public healthcare facilities. Reform aims to offer everyone

a similar basic package, funded by compulsory contributions and other general funds raised by

taxation, giving access to a service provided by qualified and regulated public providers. Specific EU-

funded actions included the preparatory work towards the first Presidential Health Summit in

October 2018 and constant support to the several commissions working on the implementation of

reform.

3.2.

Latin America and the Caribbean

3.2.1. Latin America

3.2.1.1. Introduction: Policy developments

The year 2018 saw progress in materialising EU partnerships in Latin America and the Caribbean

through political and trade agreements: with

Mercosur

(South American trade bloc), negotiations on

the political and cooperation pillars of the bi-regional Association Agreement were virtually

concluded (continuing differences on some trade issues prevented a complete conclusion); with

Mexico,

negotiations reached political conclusion making it possible to envisage completion of the

modernised Global Agreement in 2019; with

Chile,

significant headway was also made on

negotiating a modernised Association Agreement.

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Of broader relevance to the future of EU–Caribbean relations, negotiations for a new Partnership

Agreement with ACP states were launched in July. The first ministerial-level joint council under the

new Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement with

Cuba

took place in Brussels in July, laying

the ground for further enhanced cooperation and dialogues in different areas, including human

rights.

In 2018, the EU continued to play an active role in the peace process in

Colombia,

supporting the

implementation of the peace agreement through the Colombia Trust Fund. The results of the second

year of implementation by

Ecuador

of the Multi-Party Trade Agreement, which the country joined in

2017, were very positive.

Political polarisation increased and the socioeconomic situation deteriorated in

Venezuela.

The EU

pursued its support for peaceful democratic solutions based on meaningful dialogue while also

increasing pressure on the regime via carefully designed restrictive measures. Meanwhile, the EU

stepped up its assistance to address the most urgent needs of the population and of Venezuelan

migrants fleeing the country.

In Central America, protests erupted in

Nicaragua

in April, triggering a major crisis. The EU

continuously reiterated its support for dialogue, including on justice and democracy, accountability

for all crimes and electoral reforms. Instability also increased in

Guatemala

with renewed strong

attacks on the UN-established International Commission against Impunity (CICIG).

Honduras

continued to suffer from lingering problems linked to its complex electoral process.

At the regional level, while the third EU–Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC)

Summit was postponed due to internal differences over the Venezuela crisis, the second EU–CELAC

Foreign Ministers meeting, held in Brussels on 16–17 July 2018, testified to the importance given to

bi-regional partnership and confirmed the wish to continue deepening relations. The meeting

adopted the de la atio Buildi g idges a d st e gthe i g ou pa t e ship to fa e glo al

halle ges . I itiati es e e a ou ed i a u e of a eas su h as itize se u it , li ate ha ge

and bi-regional cooperation on productivity and culture.

On the margins of the July EU–CELAC meeting, the foreign ministers of the EU and the Pacific

Alliance agreed to strengthen relations and cooperation between the blocs and to prepare a joint

declaration to that effect, providing a political framework for cooperation and dialogue on areas of

shared interests.

The EU–Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Foundation

–

created in 2010 by the Heads of State and

Government of the EU and Latin America and the Caribbean as a tool to strengthen and promote the

bi-regional relationship

–

made important progress in becoming an international organisation.

The EU started preparing for collaboration with the EU–LAC

Fou datio , setti g out the EU s isio

for a stronger modernised partnership. Set for adoption in the first semester of 2019, the EU aims to

provide strategic direction for the diverse set of policies and instruments for Latin America and the

Caribbean.

In 2018, good progress was made in establishing the EU–CELAC Common Research Area, focusing on

aligning the framework conditions for research and prioritising support for implementing the SDGs

on both sides of the Atlantic. Work focused on managing research infrastructures, boosting

cooperation on the transformation of biowaste, promoting research for sustainable cities and

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

facilitating the exchange of scientists between the two regions. In addition, calls under the Horizon

2020 framework programme on research related to cancer, energy, migration and transport have

led to projects that include partners from Latin America.

3.2.1.2. Working better together, development effectiveness and partner coordination

In the new European Consensus on Development, the EU committed to be a force for the

implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Together with the EU Member

States, the Union emphasises the importance of having strong partnerships at country level that will

improve the impact of European development assistance and achieve the SDGs.

The Wo ki g ette togethe app oa h is a out a Eu opea

itment

to programme,

implement and monitor EU development cooperation in a more coordinated way based on each

pa t e ou t s Natio al De elop e t Pla . This app oa h, ith joi t p og a

i g at its o e, is

being tailored to the Latin American context, where a strategic engagement process accommodates

pa t e ou t ies sh i ki g depe de e o de elop e t fi a i g.

Four partner countries have a

Joint Programming Document:

Bolivia, Guatemala, Nicaragua

and

Paraguay.

Within the framework of the Partnership Instrument, specific facilities have been designed to

strengthen EU relations and support sectoral dialogues with

Brazil

and

Mexico,

enhancing EU

strategic partnerships in the region.

3.2.1.3. Working towards the SDGs

The multi-annual programmes for Latin America are forward-looki

g a d fit i to the fi e Ps of the

Consensus while also advancing implementation of the SDGs in the region.

The EU is well placed through its bilateral and regional programmes to assist the countries and

regional organisations in working towards the SDGs. Dialogue was stepped up at all levels, from

subregional to EU–CELAC level.

EU programmes contributed to achieving results in the areas of gender, decent jobs and the green

economy, reducing inequalities, climate change adaptation and mitigation, sustainable energy,

peace and security and capacity development in the public sector, especially in public financial

management.

The Pa t e ship I st u e t has suppo ted Co

contribute to the SDGs:



energy union and climate change,

justice and fundamental rights,

being a strong global actor,

jobs, growth and investment,

a digital single market,

migration.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

3.2.1.4. Implementation

Bilateral implementation, including budget support

The EUTF for

Colombia

supports implementation of the peace agreement with the Revolutionary

Armed Forces of Colombia

– People s A

FARC . This a ou ted to EUR

119 million at the end of

2018. It focuses on integrated rural development that will bring major economic, political and social

benefits, including for the stability of neighbouring countries and the wider region, and on the social

and economic reincorporation of former FARC combatants.

The Commission responded to the crisis that has gripped

Nicaragua,

supporting the population with

adoptio of p og a

es i the a ea of food p odu tio BOOST a d i p o e e t of the apital s

drinking water supply.

Guatemala,

the EU continues to fund CICIG to allow for the continuation of investigations and

prosecution of crime in the country. Other programmes approved in 2018 relate to the public

healthcare system (EUR 20 million) and the promotion of decent employment opportunities (EUR 15

million).

For

Honduras,

two new programmes have been adopted: one to strengthen the national system for

human rights (EUR 8 million) and the other to provide budget support for the national employment

policy (EUR 60.4 million). In

Bolivia,

new programmes were adopted in support of the justice system

(EUR

illio elated to asi sa itatio a d i p o e e t of ities ate supplies EUR

35 million,

which includes a budget support component). In

Ecuador,

the EU is contributing to the economic

reactivation of areas affected by the 2016 earthquake (EUR 26 million) and supports the

comprehensive development of the northern border with Colombia (EUR 18.9 million).

Regional cooperation and CBC overview

Environment/climate change is a major area of intervention. Activities include blending operations

u de the LAIF a d the EUROCLIMA+ flagship p og a

EUROCLIMA+ fo uses o helpi g Lati A e i a

ou t ies i ple e t thei li ate ha ge

adaptation and mitigation objectives and is implemented by seven agencies, comprising five from EU

Member States (the AFD and Expertise France; the German Corporation for International

Cooperation (GIZ); the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation for Development (AECID) and

the International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies (Fiiapp) and

two UN entities (the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and UN

Environment). Important outcomes have been the reformulation of NDCs for

Ecuador

and the

climate change law in

Chile.

The programme also supported the Forum of CELAC environment

ministers that took place in Buenos Aires in October 2018.

With regard to the Security–De

elop e t Ne us, a e p og a

e, Eu of o t EUR

15 million),

was approved to foster intra-Latin American cooperation in the area of integrated border

management. This took the form of four land-crossing posts, involving seven countries, and support

for the fight against human and migrant trafficking.

The El PA CTO p og a

e Eu ope–Latin

America Assistance Programme against Transnational

Organised Crime) is well established. The year 2018 saw the signing of the Ameripol Convention by

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five countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador and Panama, with the Dominican Republic and

Paraguay as candidates), with

Argentina

and

Brazil

reinforcing police cooperation against

international organised crime. El PAcCTO is the EU response in support of the dialogue on citizen

security within the region and with the EU Member States.

Copolad II , the

regional programme on drugs policies, represents a unique platform for dialogue

between 31 countries and institutions from the EU and Latin America and the Caribbean. It had good

results in 2018, reducing demand for drugs and creating National Observatories.

With regard to supporting inclusive and sustainable growth, several regional programmes (like AL-

Invest) targeted MSMEs as a catalyser for poverty reduction. With regard to supporting good

go e a e, a ou ta ilit a d so ial e uit , EUROso iAL+ is

addressing social inclusion in the

region through programmes on good governance, social policies and gender.

The Regio al fa ilit fo i te atio al oope atio a d pa t e ship Adela te is a pilot p og a

on triangular cooperation in Latin America. Adelante supports the scaling-up of good practices at all

levels, clearly linked with the achievement of the SDGs. Limited financing (EUR 10 million) has

managed to mobilise 54 organisations from 18 countries in the region in sectors ranging from

agriculture to judicial reform.

The Regio al fa ilit fo de elop e t i t a sitio p og a

e EUR

9.5 million), which is being

implemented jointly and is co-financed with the OECD and ECLAC, aims to effectively respond to the

development challenges arising for countries transitioning to higher levels of income.

Blending operations have continued to feature high on the cooperation agenda through a policy of

engagement with financial institutions. Six operations within the LAIF were approved in 2018

(EUR 659 million), encompassing three regional projects in

Central America

and

Mercosur

and three

bilateral projects in

Colombia, Cuba

and

Ecuador.

The Partnership Instrument has been active in the region at different levels and through the Policy

Support Facility and the TAIEX instrument. Actions relate to areas of key interest to the EU, ranging

from sustainable trade, promoting business cooperation on low-carbon technologies and the digital

economy to sustainable mining, safe and climate-friendly aviation, gender and corporate social

responsibility.

Case studies

EUTF for Colombia

Context

The EUTF for Colombia, officially launched in December 2016, has a total budget of EUR 119 million,

including contributions from 19 EU Member States and Chile.

Objectives

The objective is to support the Colombian government in the implementation of the peace agreement in

the short and medium term, with a special focus on rural and productive development in specific

geographic areas as well as on reintegration of ex-combatants.

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Impact

By the end of 2018, 16 projects were ongoing with a contribution of EUR 56.5 million. This established a

solid presence in the territories covering 73 municipalities and all temporary reincorporation zones, where

former combatants are transitioning to civilian life.

In the areas where the fund is operating, implementing partners report that projects are helping to rebuild

trust between former FARC combatants and surrounding communities as well as in the overall peace

process. A genuine social reintegration and reconciliation process is taking place, which includes working

with ex-combatants, the military and municipalities. Altogether, the trust fund is contributing to rebuilding

and increasing trust in the state.

Trust fund projects have produced results quickly, be it in terms of productive infrastructure (7 fish-farming

facilities; poultry- and pork-processing infrastructure; pineapple-processing facility for ex-combatants),

training (61 women were certified in rural journalism and peacebuilding; scholarships were awarded to

rural youth) or increased access to market (projects have started exporting coffee to Europe and Australia

and bananas to the United States; peasant markets

–

mercados campesinos

–

have been established or

revamped; and food security activities have begun to yield results).

El PAcCTO

Context

As of December 2018, Latin America is the most violent region in the world; illegal trafficking controlled by

organised crime groups takes place on a large scale. In that context, citizen security is one of the priorities of

the EU–CELAC political dialogue and Action Plan. With a EUR 23 million budget, El PAcCTO is a translation

into practice of the Security–Development Nexus as one of the main areas of EU-funded cooperation. For

the first time in Latin America, a regional programme covers the entire criminal chain. The programme

supports the rule of law in the 18 Latin American countries. It started operating in May 2017, and its

technical activities began in February 2018 and will last until 2022.

Objectives

El PAcCTO is a technical assistance programme conceived to share good practices between the EU and its

Member States and Latin American countries. It favours exchanges between peers, which is a key issue in

regional or international cooperation. El PAcCTO supports its beneficiary institutions through concrete cases

and aims to address the main issues in the fight against organised crime.

The p og a

e s th ee ai o po e ts a e poli e oope atio , judi ial oope atio a d pe ite tia

systems, which together cover the five issues of money laundering, corruption, cybercrime, gender issues

and human rights. The programme works with more than 70 public institutions in the Latin American

ou t ies, ostl

i ist ies, ge e al p ose uto s offi es a d

supreme courts. El PAcCTO is demand-driven

and results-oriented.

Impact

CBC is at the core of El PAcCTO. In 2018, the programme supported the creation of a Latin American Police

Cooperation Centre at the border between Panama and Costa Rica, based on the EU model of Police

Customs Cooperation Centres. This centre is now operational and will continue to develop in 2019.

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The signature of the Buenos Aires Agreement for the creation of Ameripol was a major achievement in 2018.

Ameripol will foster the exchange of information and intelligence among prosecutors and law enforcement

agencies, enabling complex investigations in the region. Moreover, thanks to EU support, Europol has shown

great interest in strengthening its partnership with Ameripol in Latin America. Collaboration, exchange of

expertise between Ameripol and Europol are expected to start in 2019.

One concrete action targeted internet child pornography and led to the arrests of suspects in Latin America

and Europe. The operation also enabled the identification of problems and solutions related to criminal

investigation and prosecution in cybercrime matters.

3.2.1.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Venezuela

The year 2018 saw a critical deterioration in the overall living conditions of the population in

Venezuela due to a sharpening socioeconomic and political crisis. Lack of medicines, combined with

a d asti edu tio i the health s ste s apa it , esulted i a g

owing number of people lacking

treatment for chronic diseases or emergency medical care. Several large outbreaks of infectious

diseases occurred, including measles, diphtheria and malaria, as a result of the discontinuation of

preventive programmes, deterioration of sanitary conditions and decreased vaccination coverage.

Malnutrition rates exceeded emergency thresholds in many areas. By the end of 2018, more than

3.2 million people had left the country, concentrating in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru in

particular. The EU allocated EUR 32 million to help the affected populations in Venezuela and in the

region, targeting provision of health and nutritional services, water and sanitation, protection,

education in emergencies and support to host communities.

Colombia

, hu a ita ia eeds e e o the ise i Colo ia s fo gotte hu a ita ia

isis. A ess

and respect for international humanitarian law became even more challenging in some areas.

Conflict and violence perpetrated against civilians by old and new armed groups seeking to gain

territorial control caused new population displacement with spillover effects in the region. More

than 150 000 people were displaced in 2018, and 1 million suffered confinement and mobility

restrictions. By the end of the year, there were around 300 000 Colombian refugees in neighbouring

countries. In addition, the escalation of the multidimensional crisis in Venezuela forced large

numbers of people to flee to Colombia, escaping insecurity and/or looking for basic assistance.

Colombia is also highly prone to natural disasters. Conflict-affected municipalities are particularly at

risk and provide only limited access to emergency responders. The EU allocated EUR 8 million to help

people affected by conflicts and natural disasters in Colombia, targeting protection, healthcare,

water and sanitation for the most vulnerable groups and education in emergency and disaster

preparedness.

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3.2.1.6. Crisis response and preparedness

The IcSP remained engaged in

Colombia

throughout 2018. Following rejection of the agreement

between the Colombian government and FARC at the end of 2016, there was great uncertainty

regarding continuation of the peace process. In this context, the IcSP contributed by providing

essential and timely support to the tripartite monitoring and verification mission responsible for

monitoring and verifying the cessation of hostilities, the ceasefire and the disarmament of FARC.

IcSP support was instrumental in providing training to the Colombian military and police personnel

charged with ensuring the security of the zones in which FARC members had concentrated to

demobilise and where they would later hand in their weapons.

The IcSP also contributed to the EU response to the political and migratory crisis in

Venezuela

supporting conflict-prevention efforts between Venezuelan nationals relocated in northern Brazil

(Roraima and Amazonas) and the border areas of Colombia and local communities. These actions

focused on the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence and the supply of basic services,

promoting peaceful coexistence and fighting xenophobia through communication campaigns and

other information activities. The IcSP also supported actions with the aim of generating conditions

for a peaceful end to the conflict by increasing cohesion among the various political actors and

preparing a structured format for any future negotiations.

Nicaragua,

the IcSP supported international tools to monitor and supervise possible human rights

violations during the confrontations that took place in 2018. The IcSP also supported domestic

human rights organisations in their effort to assist victims of political repression.

3.2.2. The Caribbean

3.2.2.1. Introduction (policy developments)

In 2018, preparations for the Caribbean dimension of the post-Cotonou framework were made.

Negotiations for a new Partnership Agreement with ACP states were launched in July, and the first

round was completed in December. In this context, informal consultations with the Caribbean

countries on the future of EU–Caribbean relations continued, and members agreed that the new

agreement, to be negotiated early in 2019, would include both a common part and regional

components.

A series of meetings between the EU and its Caribbean partners further enhanced relations. The first

EU–Cuba ministerial-level joint council under the new PDCA (Political Dialogue and Cooperation

Agreement), co-chaired by HR/VP Mogherini, took place in Brussels in July, laying the ground for

continued cooperation. An EU–Cariforum ministerial meeting, also co-chaired by HR/VP Mogherini,

was held in July in Brussels, contributing to ever closer EU–Caribbean links. Senior-level EU–

Cariforum political dialogue took place in Saint Lucia on 21 November 2018. The fourth meeting of

the EU–Cariforum Joint Strategy Working Group was held on 16 May 2018 in Brussels.

The year was also marked by continuation of the response to the devastating effects of hurricanes

Irma and Maria in several countries and territories of the region. This was

ased o a Li ki g elief,

eha ilitatio a d de elop e t app oa h a d a ked

a o e all assista e pa kage of EUR

300

million.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Cuba,

the top leadership of the country was renewed when former President Castro stepped

down at the end of his mandate, as promised.

EU cooperation with

Haiti

continued to receive attention throughout 2018. As the only LDC

remaining in the Caribbean, Haiti is the largest recipient of EU assistance (the EDF alone will

contribute more than EUR 450 million over the period 2014–

. Haiti s se ious e o o i

problems have been compounded by political instability, weak institutions and vulnerability to

natural disasters. In 2018, the Commission continued implementation of the joint response plan to

suppo t the go e

e t s

ehabilitation efforts in the wake of hurricane Matthew in 2016. Despite

some positive developments, the root causes of political instability remain unchanged, and

significant structural reforms (electoral system, constitution and judiciary), together with reinforcing

the fight against corruption, remain necessary and urgent.

In 2018, cooperation on tax good governance and on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the

Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) remained high on the agenda to ensure compliance, avoid listing

and ensuring de-listing.

3.2.2.2. Working better together, development effectiveness and partner coordination

The Secretariat for the Caribbean Community (Caricom) is the main body for the Caribbean Member

States that coordinates international, regional and national institutions in achieving the objectives

on aid effectiveness. In 2018, the EU participated in several steering committee meetings, technical

task forces and technical committees to help enhance sector coordination at regional level.

In the eastern Caribbean, partner coordination is mainly organised through the Eastern Caribbean

Development Partners Group, which is the UN-led coordination mechanism.

Strong regional coordination is taking place in the area of renewable energy, climate change and

disaster risk management. On energy, the start of operations of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable

Energy and Energy Efficiency triggered funding from the EU, EU Member States and the UN

Industrial Development Organization. On climate change, the Caribbean Community Climate Change

Centre and the Organisation for Eastern Caribbean States were the main drivers of exchanges. The

Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency facilitated dialogue with the contributors during

the hurricane season. Focused on the National Resilience Strategy and the Climate Resilient

Execution Agency, coordination was equally important in

Dominica

for reconstruction after

hurricane Maria.

The joint programming processes in the Caribbean were stalled by the particular condition of the

SIDS, the political situation and natural catastrophes. The EU, France, Germany and Spain have

agreed on a roadmap for building their joint development cooperation for

Haiti.

There is

commitment to re-engage discussions, including with Switzerland, on bringing a coordinated

European response to the multiple challenges faced in the country.

3.2.2.3. Working towards the SDGs

The Caribbean countries are typically small economies with limited resources and capacity. Overall,

the countries in the region registered progress in meeting the SDGs. However, given that some of

the goals are not always a priority in budget allocation, a more integrated approach is needed to

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

make progress in, for example: SDG 9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure; SDG 12 Responsible

consumption and production; and SDG 16 Peace, justice and strong institutions.

The EU, through bilateral and regional programmes, helps partner countries achieve results in areas

of particular importance for the region, such as the green economy, climate change and sustainable

energy. The Caribbean subregion is one of the most vulnerable worldwide when it comes to climate

change and its impacts, including frequent natural disasters.

A good example is the budget support provided on renewable energy in Barbados, Dominica and

Saint Kitts and Nevis. Joint analysis of progress included indicators and targets under the SDGs. EU

support has contributed to achieving targets on access to energy and CO

emissions (SDGs 7, 13).

Since 2012, more than EUR 62.2 million has been provided through the Caribbean Investment

Facility (CIF) on renewable energy, mobilising a total investment of EUR 779 million.

The devastation caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria has triggered efforts to improve the resilience

of infrastructu

e to su h e e ts. Resilie e is a o

o the e i the poli dialogue ith al ost

all of the Caribbean countries and overseas countries and territories (OCTs

–

see Chapter 3.6) and is

i luded i i di idual ou t st ategies a oss the egio . The Build a k ette app oa h is at the

core of EU cooperation in the region and was the basis for the additional EUR 300 million that the EU

allocated after hurricanes Irma and Maria to support humanitarian assistance, recovery and

reconstruction and long-term resilience building. The main SDGs targeted have been 6, 7, 9, 11 and

13.

The region has marked progress towards the SDGs related to climate change (SDGs 12, 13, 14, 15)

with the implementation of the regional climate change strategic framework and the overarching

strategic plan for the Caribbean Community 2015–2019. These initiatives are supported through the

regional programmes, both for the OCTs and the Caribbean countries.

As for gender, the Caribbean still faces significant inequality and serious levels of domestic violence.

The EU is highly engaged through dialogue and the promotion of women in non-traditional roles.

This has ee the ase i Gu a a, he e o e s e gage e t i s ie e, te h olog , e gi ee i g

and mathematics careers has been promoted within the Sea Defence Budget Support.

3.2.2.4. Implementation

Bilateral implementation, including budget support

In 2018, implementation of the Humanitarian–Development Nexus to help the region cope with the

aftermath of hurricanes Irma and Maria was

ke to esto i g people s li elihoods a d i f ast u tu e.

One year after the hurricanes, the EU pledge (EUR 300 million) has mobilised a range of tools,

resources and services to stimulate reconstruction and facilitate recovery.

Building upon the Commissio

s elief i te e tio , p og a

es fo edu i g st u tu al ul e a ilit

have been put in place in

Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Dominica,

Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis

and

Saint Martin.

Funds were mobilised (EUR 8.6 million) under

the Shock Absorption Mechanism to support economic and social recovery in

Dominica.

Three new

operations of the CIF have been committed to enable Caribbean economic infrastructure and the

fragile coastal ecosystems to withstand recurrent extreme natural events. The operations concern

housing and reconstruction in the

Dominican Republic,

renewable energy and energy efficiency in

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Barbados

and sustainable agriculture and competitiveness in

Suriname.

The Glo al pu li goods

a d halle ges p og a

e has been instrumental in complementing the reconstruction efforts and

building resilience in countries such as

Cuba,

the

Dominican Republic, Haiti

and

Trinidad and

Tobago.

Support has been provided on environment and climate change, renewable energy and energy

efficiency in

Belize

(EUR 14 million),

Dominica

(EUR 2.62 million) and

Saint Kitts and Nevis

(EUR 5

million) as well as

Barbados, Cuba, Guyana, Jamaica, Saba

and

St Eustatius

(around EUR 95 million

altogether). In

Cuba,

a new programme of EUR 20 million has been put in place in the area of

sustainable agriculture. The programme will help the government make agriculture more resilient to

climate change and, ultimately, reduce dependency on imported food. In the

Dominican Republic,

funds have been allocated in support of public finance management (EUR 21.25 million). A new

budget support programme was launched in

Montserrat

to support growth. The budget support

programmes in the education sector in

Anguilla

and

Turks and Caicos

were topped up after the 2017

hurricanes.

Regional cooperation including CBC overview

At regional level, recovery from the hurricanes has been seen as an opportunity to mainstream

resilience in all sectors of the economy against the increased occurrences and impacts of natural

disasters. The EU has continued strengthening Caribbean regional cooperation with the adoption of

seven new programmes under the Caribbean Regional Indicative Programme, including Caribbean

Investment Fund contributions (EUR 160 million). Nine interventions are being implemented to

enhance regional economic integration, climate change and disaster risk management and to

improve citizen security and border management.

Two programmes were launched to enhance preparedness for and reduce risk from disaster and to

st e gthe apa it i the Ca i ea to ithsta d e u e t atu al disaste s: the Ca i ea

egio al esilie e uildi g fa ilit EUR

27.7 million) programme and the OCTs regional programme

fo Resilie e, sustai a le e e g a d a i e iodi e sit EUR

40 million).

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Case studies

EU CIF

Context

The EU CIF, launched in 2012, has a total budget of EUR 135 million under the 11th EDF Caribbean Regional

Programme.

Objectives

The objective is to contribute to regional integration, economic growth and poverty reduction in the region

through mobilisation of financial resources for investment projects in strategic infrastructure and for the

development of SMEs.

Impact

By the end of 2018, the CIF has contributed to six operations with total grants of EUR 58 million, triggering

EUR 595 million of investment from international financial institutions and other investors and representing

a global leverage ratio of EUR 10.3 of investments per EUR 1 of CIF contribution.

A major advantage of the CIF is that it lowers borrowing costs for the Caribbean islands, most of which do

not qualify for concessional funding due to their current middle–high income status. The CIF has thus

enabled significant investment operations in Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Suriname in

sectors that are key for deepening the economic, social and territorial cohesion of the Caribbean region.

Energy is the sector that has benefited most from CIF support, which contributed to steering EU climate

change actions and moving closer towards the goals of the Paris Agreement in terms of clean energy and

greenhouse gas emissions in the Caribbean region. In Jamaica, the retrofitting of public hospital buildings is

providing annual savings of EUR 2 million and 8 900 tonnes of CO

emissions. The facility enabled the

development and use of clean energies through a regional geothermal project in the islands of Dominica,

Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Another example is the support provided to the Dominican Republic after the devastation by hurricane

Matthew to cope with early recovery, reconstruction and the improvement of livelihoods. More than 1

million people affected by the hurricane will have access to essential services (markets, hospitals and

schools), and more than 6 000 people

–

displaced or living in the most vulnerable situations

–

will be

provided with housing.

The huge development potential of CIF investment projects in the Caribbean makes it a valuable tool to be

expanded in the future.

Support for economic modernisation in Cuba

Context

Since Castro took power in 2008, the Cuban government has embarked on economic and social reforms. The

framework for that process has been the

lineamientos

adopted in 2011 and updated in 2016. EU support for

achieving the objectives of the

lineamientos

and the National Development Plan is articulated through the

Suppo t to e o o i ode isatio i st u e t, a i o ati e p og a

e ased o olla o atio .

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Afte

the fi st p og a

e sta ted i

, Suppo t to e o o i ode isatio i Cu a as e pa ded ith

a follow-up version in January 2017. This second phase had an initial budget of EUR 7.9 million, including a

contribution of EUR 225 000 from Cuba. The programme was a success, and the budget was subsequently

increased to EUR 10.2 million.

Objectives

The main objectives are to complement the ongoing process of economic modernisation in Cuba with the

sharing of best practices and the implementation of measures for modernising public administration in areas

of mutual interest.

At the request of Cuban institutions, the second phase of the programme will focus on the following:



Impact

fiscal policy,

statistics,

local and urban development,

economic planning and modelling,

production chains,

business development,

foreign trade,

pharma-economy,

foreign investment.

This programme allows for the exchange of EU experts or officials and Cuban public administrations to

support the ongoing socioeconomic modernisation process, forge alliances between the technicians of the

respective public functions and produce positive results for development. It has been improving the

effectiveness and equity of the tax collection process (including the extension to different provinces of the

Integrated Management System for Fiscal Administration) and the quality of information provided to citizens

(through the set-up of an interactive web application). It has also been promoting the use of modern

management methods.

The key factors

i the p og a

e s su ess ha e ee :





the ownership and piloting by Cuban institutions;

a high degree of flexibility, enabling rapid adaptation and response to new emerging scenarios;

quality standards, ensured by optimal use of the resources invested by the different actors.

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3.2.2.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Haiti food crisis

Haiti faced critical food and nutritional insecurity in 2018 with more than 1.3 million people in acute

food crisis. The food situation of the most vulnerable households was particularly worrying in the

areas stricken by hurricanes Matthew and Irma. Prevalence of acute malnutrition among children

under the age of five remained high through the year. In 2018, the EU provided humanitarian

assistance amounting to EUR 15.6 million in response to acute food insecurity and to the earthquake

and to better prepare for other natural disasters. As result of this action, the EU covered the food

and nutrition needs of some 165 000 people, around 15 000 of whom were provided with non-food

items following the earthquake. Some 20 000 people have benefited from disaster-related initiatives

such as water, sanitation and hygiene preparedness, rapid-response capacities, disaster-resistant

shelter building and drought preparedness.

3.2.2.6. Crisis response and preparedness

In the Caribbean, the IcSP remained engaged in the tensions at the border between

Haiti

and the

Dominican Republic.

As the migratory crisis fuels tensions between the two countries, the IcSP

action is supporting a set of interconnected community-oriented and rights-based interventions for

at-risk populations in both countries.

3.3.

Asia, Central Asia, Middle East/Gulf and Pacific

3.3.1. Asia

3.3.1.1. Introduction: Policy developments

On 19 September, the HR/VP and the Commission adopted a Joint Communication on Europe–Asia

o e ti it that sets out the EU s isio fo a e a d o p ehe si e st ateg to ette o e t

the two continents. With sustainable, comprehensive rules-based connectivity at its core, the

Communication will help to guide EU external action in this field and is part of the implementation of

its Global Strategy.

The eighth ASEM Summit was held on 18–19 October in Brussels, where the ASEM leaders adopted a

sho te , o e fo used state e t o e i g e t al the es u de ASEM s th ee-pillar

structure: i)

political, ii) economic, and iii) social–cultural and connectivity.

A new

EU–Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan

(SEP) is expected to succeed the Five-Year

Engagement Plan for 2012–2017. The SEP aims to strengthen cooperation in the following areas:



peace and security;

democracy, rule of law, good governance and human rights;

migration and mobility;

trade and investment;

sustainable development, including energy;

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



education and culture;

science and technology.

The SEP is expected to be signed and launched at the next EU–Pakistan Strategic Dialogue.

The Council adopted Foreign Affairs Council conclusions on

Afghanistan

in November 2018,

reconfirming the long-term commitment of the EU and Member States to promoting peace, stability

and prosperity in Afghanistan and to support its sustainable development. The first EU–Afghanistan

Joint Committee took place in February 2018. At the Geneva Ministerial Conference on Afghanistan

in November, the HR/VP made a five-point offer to support peace in Afghanistan.

The 20th

EU–China Summit

took place in Beijing on 16 July 2018. It was a successful summit with in-

depth exchanges on a wide spectrum of issues. It delivered a strong message of joint support for

multilateralism and the rules-based international trading system. A wide-ranging and substantive

Joint Statement was adopted, with concrete points on foreign policy and security issues, trade and

investment and global challenges as well as an extensive annex on climate change and clean energy

cooperation, supporting the implementation of the Paris Agreement.

On 20 November, the HR/VP and the Commission adopted a Joint Communication that sets out the

EU s isio fo a st ateg to st e gthe oope atio a d pa t e ship ith

India.

The Foreign Affairs

Council endorsed the Joint Communication in December.

EU–ASEAN relations continued to advance, building on the 40th anniversary of the establishment of

official relations in 2017. In August, HR/VP Mogherini attended the annual ASEAN–EU Post-

Ministerial Conference with ASEAN foreign ministers in Singapore. She also participated in the 24th

ASEAN Regional Forum. The informal EU–ASEAN Leaders Meeting, the first since 2014, took place in

October in Brussels, demonstrating the strong common interest in deepening EU–ASEAN

cooperation and building on increasingly successful economic relations towards a reinforced

partnership encompassing a broad agenda on connectivity and security.

In 2018, the Foreign Affairs Council adopted conclusions on

Myanmar

on 28 February and

10 December with a focus on key issues such as access for humanitarian aid, cooperation with all

relevant UN mandates, ending violence and the need to address the root causes of the crisis and to

prepare conditions for safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees from

Bangladesh to their places of origin.

In February 2018, the Foreign Affairs Council adopted conclusions on

Cambodia

in which it

expressed concerns about political developments in the country and the continuing deterioration of

democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law.

The EU signed three important agreements with

Singapore

in 2018, notably the Partnership and

Cooperation Agreement, the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Investment Protection

Agreement. These agreements will significantly upgrade the bilateral EU–Singapore relationship and

further strengthen the EU presence in south-east Asia.

Moreover, in 2018 the EU signed the FLEGT Voluntary Partnership Agreement with

Vietnam.

The

EU–Japan Summit

in July saw the signing of the EU–Japan SPA as well as the ambitious

Economic Partnership Agreement. This paved the way for closer political cooperation based on

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shared values, human rights, democracy and rule of law as well as implementation of the most

ambitious free trade deal that the EU has concluded, as of December 2018.

The EU political agreements with

Australia

(the EU–Australia Framework Agreement) and

New

Zealand

(the EU–New Zealand Partnership Agreement for Relations and Cooperation) started being

applied provisionally. The negotiations on FTAs were also launched with both countries in 2018.

3.3.1.2. Working better together, development effectiveness and partner coordination

The Eu opea Co

issio has ade o side a le o t i utio s to the d afti g of the EU s st ateg

to better connect Europe and

Asia,

promoting a European concept of sustainable, comprehensive

and rules-based connectivity that contributes to prosperity, safety and resilience of people and

societies in Europe and Asia. The strategy covers transport, energy, digital and people-to-people

dimensions, and it outlines an implementation approach that aims to improve networks, strengthen

partnerships and sustain financing for investment.

New regional programmes adopted in 2018 with the World Bank, the IMF, the OECD and Unicef

provide tools, platforms and technical assistance for delegations to complement their bilateral

programmes and substantive capacities with initiatives in key cross-cutting areas. In the ASEAN

region, the new Enhanced Regional EU–ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (E-READI) has already played an

important role in enhancing the coherence and impact of EU policy engagement with ASEAN in

several priority areas. Four dialogue streams have been launched as part of the programme, in

collaboration with other Commission services, covering circular economy, natural capital, clean

energy and fisheries.

I a effo t to oost the EU s apa it to e gage i su sta ti e poli dialogue a d e ha e

relations with partner countries in the region, several new programmes were adopted in 2018 in

countries that are no longer eligible for bilateral development cooperation. These include activities

based on triangular cooperation and collaboration through the Partnerships and Policy Dialogue

Facility.

Major progress has been made in engaging with

China,

with Commissioner Mimica being the first

European political representative to meet with the Chairperson of the newly formed China

International Development Cooperation Agency. With

India,

the groundwork has been laid to

resume the EU–India development partnership within the context of the 2030 Agenda ahead of the

Director-Ge

e al s isit, pla ed fo Ja ua

Throughout Asia, budget support continued to be the preferred aid modality in 2018. Budget

support enables intensified policy dialogue accompanied by capacity-building support, while being

fully in line with aid effectiveness principles that promote country ownership and the use of

domestic systems. The EU works with other partners to engage with governments in the region.

In 2018, the European Commission also continued to support investments through blending and

other measures (such as capacity building and policy dialogue). These efforts continue to position

the Commission as a catalyst for investments in the field of climate change and the environment,

SME development and social infrastructure. The Commission is also exploring ways to foster

investments in fragile states such as

Afghanistan

and

Iraq.

To increase engagement with the private

sector in search of investment vehicles with a development impact, the Commission has also

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approached investment fund managers and European development finance institutions such as

Proparco and Cofides.

In the Asian countries in which the European Commission has bilateral development cooperation

programmes, different levels (global, regional, sectoral, government-led or not, European) of partner

coordination have been established to ensure aid effectiveness. More integrated and effective

European cooperation is in place in

Cambodia

(

) and

Laos

(

), where development counsellors of

the EU and the Member States, together with Switzerland, meet regularly on the basis of their Joint

Programming Documents. In addition, the European group in

Nepal

agreed on a joint analysis of the

European development cooperation approach. For the next programming period, joint programming

should also be (re)considered for

Myanmar,

the

Philippines

and

Vietnam,

as well as in

south Asia

(Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan).

3.3.1.3. Working towards the SDGs

The SDGs continued to be at the heart of

the Eu opea Co

issio s i itiati es i the egio .

In the Communication on Migration adopted by the Commission in June 2016 (

Afghanistan,

Bangladesh, Iraq

and

Pakistan

were identified as priority countries. EU development cooperation in

these countries includes a strategic focus on sectors that provide a balanced approach, targeting

poverty and inclusive growth, thereby addressing root causes of fragility and migration. Examples

are job creation through PSD, income generation, community development projects and TVET.

The Commission further contributed to GAP II, including delivering on the gender top-ups

established for

Afghanistan

and

Myanmar,

effectively mainstreaming gender equality in 2018 for

the Asia–Pacific region, following up on the Spotlight Initiative and systematically addressing gender

equality in the framework of its growing budget support portfolio.

In 2018, the Partnership Instrument continues to contribute to EU action by articulating and

implementing the external dimension of internal policies and connecting different policy areas.

Actions in Asia at bilateral and regional levels support work towards different SDGs. They cover

challenges of global concern, such as climate change and environmental protection, and the

international dimension of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive jobs and

growth, improving access to markets and boosting trade, investment and business opportunities for

EU companies (with particular emphasis on SMEs) and public diplomacy. In the framework of the

Partnership Instrument, several projects contribute to the achievement of various SDGs.

3.3.1.4. Implementation

In south Asia, a number of new projects related to education, justice reform, parliamentary reform,

public financial management, sustainable livelihoods and rural development were adopted, all

aligned with national priorities.

For

Afghanistan,

the Ministerial Conference of November 2018 in Geneva was an important

stocktaking exercise. Commissioner Mimica and Afghan Minister of Finance Quayoumi signed

The participating members in the European Development Cooperation Strategy for Cambodia are the EU, Belgium, Czechia, Finland,

France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

The pa ti ipati g e e s i Eu opea joi t p og a

i g fo Lao People s De o ati

Republic are the EU, Finland, France, Germany,

Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

COM(2016) 385 final, 07.06.2016.

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financing agreements for four programmes worth EUR 465 million adopted in 2018 to support

elections, police reform, health and nutrition services and a second budget support operation in the

form of a State and Resilience Building Contract (SRBC), which enables sustainable and predictable

implementation of reforms by the Afghan government and enhanced dialogue with the EU.

Regarding migration, the Commission has developed a major operation to improve the reintegration

of returnees in

Afghanistan, Bangladesh

and

Pakistan

by mobilising approximately EUR 92 million

for the period 2016–2020. Following an additional commitment of EUR 196 million in 2017 under the

Add essi g ig atio a d fo ed displa e e t halle ges i Asia a d the Middle East:

o p ehe si e egio al EU espo se p og a

efforts in 2018 concentrated on the

implementation of these funds, with EUR 250 million contracted and most projects reaching

substantial annual targets and achievements. In

Bangladesh,

a new EUR 15 million project was

adopted and signed with Unicef, following on from the 2017 EU pledge to support Rohingya

refugees.

In south-east Asia, large bilateral development cooperation programmes are in place in

Cambodia,

Laos, Myanmar,

the

Philippines

and

Vietnam

to support job creation, agriculture/nutrition,

resilience against climate change, sustainable energy, investments in education, good governance

and peacebuilding.

The AIF contributes to the realisation of projects aiming to improve connectivity, reduce

unemployment and poverty and to help partner economies advance in sustainable and resilient

ways. The overall objective is promotion of SDG-related investments through the leverage of funds

from public and private investors. In 2018, six projects (EUR 43.60 million) covering

Cambodia,

China, India, Myanmar

and

Vietnam

were approved for grant financing, with the AFD acting as main

implementing partner.

3.3.1.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Rohingya crisis

In 2018, the EU substantially scaled up the humanitarian response to the Rohingya crisis in

Bangladesh. Following the massive displacement from Rakhine State in Myanmar of August 2017,

more than EUR 40 million were granted through the EU budget to provide protection, food

assistance, health services and water and sanitation facilities to one million Rohingya and host

u ities i the Co s Baza egio i Ba gladesh. I additio , the EU ope ed a offi e i Co s

Bazar with a team of humanitarian experts to facilitate the provision of relief assistance to those in

need.

Bhutan Disaster Risk Reduction

In 2018, the EU provided humanitarian assistance amounting to EUR 2 million to help Bhutan better

prepare for natural disasters. Bhutan achieved astonishing results with this contribution, thanks also

to the high level of ownership shown by the government. Disaster management and contingency

plans were integrated at all levels of the education system through training manuals, interactive

teaching and learning materials for school safety, including for schools with special education needs

programmes and monastic institutions. As a result, children, their parents and extended families are

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

now better prepared for disasters. Disaster risk reduction is now an integral part of the new teacher

curriculum.

3.3.1.6. Crisis response and preparedness

In 2018, the IcSP played a part in responses to the most acute crises in Asia, including Afghanistan

and the Rohingya crisis, and continued to be engaged in conflict prevention and peacebuilding in

places at risk of instability.

Afghanistan,

three crucial actions started in 2018, focusing on the peace process between the

government and the armed group Hezb-i-Islami as well as police reform and the electoral process.

The Afghanistan Peace Support Initiative is supporting an inclusive Afghan-led and -owned peace

process by facilitating progress in the peace agreement between the Government of the Islamic

Republic of Afghanistan and Hezb-i-Islami, promoting it as a model for agreements with other armed

groups. Building on the experiences and lessons learned from the former EU Police mission, the

police reform action enables the Afghan National Police to perform its tasks more effectively and

efficiently, specifically in its civilian policing mandate with the aim of supporting a government-

owned agenda for institutional reform and professionalisation. Another action focuses on

sustainability and electoral integrity in Afghanistan in the context of elections in 2018 and 2019. The

I SP also o ti ues to suppo t o e s a ti e a d ea i gful pa ti ipatio i lo al, p o i ial a d

national peace processes, encouraging a culture of peace at both national and local levels.

New actions made operational under the IcSP crisis response component in Asia during 2018 also

include two initiatives related to the Rohingya crisis. A first action supports registration of the

Rohingya population in Bangladesh and catering for their immediate needs while also helping them

prepare to return to Myanmar once conditions are met. A second action, also implemented in

Bangladesh, focuses on young people as agents of change for peace in Rohingya refugee camps.

With experience gained from important IcSP activity since 2010, the EU has become a key actor in

supporting the peace process in the

Philippines.

New initiatives were launched in 2018 to monitor

implementation of the ceasefire and peace process agreements.

A new programme is also pursuing peacebuilding efforts in

Kashmir

through the promotion of Cross-

Line of Control confidence-building measures and political dialogue. It will encourage political actors

in New Delhi and Islamabad to re-engage over Kashmir and provide them with insights about

Kashmiri perspectives on the key sociopolitical issues where concrete outcomes are viable.

In addition, in 2018 the IcSP continued implementation of two actions in

Pakistan,

one providing

support to returnees and their communities in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and the other

focusing on strengthening the capacities of the established federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

provincial counterterrorism and criminal justice institutions. By supporting establishment of a

credible peace architecture, the latter action also has a role in the long-standing conflict situation in

southern Thailand.

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3.3.2. Central Asia

3.3.2.1. Introduction: Policy developments

The year 2018 witnessed a fast-changing dynamic in Central Asia, driven by political and economic

reform in

Uzbekistan.

The new momentum in regional cooperation was illustrated by the Astana

informal Summit of Central Asian leaders on 15 March. In August, a Summit of the International

Fund for Saving the Aral Sea took place in Turkmenistan and the Convention on the Legal Status of

the Caspian Sea was signed in Kazakhstan. Development of connectivity initiatives in the region was

high on the agenda and created new challenges, but also opportunities. Central Asian countries also

displayed a more active interest towards

Afghanistan,

as demonstrated in March at the Tashkent

Conference chaired by HR/VP Mogherini and reiterated during the Geneva Conference on

Afghanistan in November. The annual EU–Central Asia High-Level Political and Security Dialogue was

organised in Turkmenistan in July, and the annual EU–Central Asia Ministerial Meeting took place in

Brussels in November.

In 2018, the region continued to recover from the previous fall of raw material prices and economic

slowdowns in

Russia

and

China.

Remittances from migrant workers increased again. Enhanced CBC

and facilitation measures led to an upturn in regional trade and people-to-people exchanges. The

Roghun hydropower dam started its initial operations in

Tajikistan

with water, energy and

environmental issues remaining sensitive and a potential trigger for instability. The EU led the way in

preparations for the remediation of uranium legacy sites in

Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan

and

Uzbekistan.

Security concerns include the potential return of Central Asian fighters and their families from the

Middle East and continued instability in

Afghanistan.

The EU is seen by its Central Asian partners as a global standard-setter and leading supporter of their

reform and modernisation processes

–

which the EU delivers through its ODA

–

and the new-

generation Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreements (EPCAs), providing a broad platform

for regulatory convergence.

Kazakhstan

signed an EPCA in 2015, and EPCA negotiations with

Uzbekistan

were launched in November 2018 as negotiations with

Kyrgyzstan

were reaching their

final phase.

Tajikistan

also expressed interest in an EPCA and in becoming a beneficiary under the

EU s GSP+ Ge e alised S ste of P efe ences)

category. Central Asian countries have also

e p essed g o i g i te est i the EU s e pe ie e of p o oti g sustai a le o e ti it

as per the

new EU strategy on Connecting Europe and Asia, released in October.

In 2018 the EU cooperated further with Central Asia on research and innovation with a view to

ta kli g o e effe ti el the egio s e i o e tal a d so ietal halle ges a d e ha i g people-

to-people connectivity. Through the EU–Central Asia Network on Water Science and Technology, the

EU promotes scientific cooperation with Central Asia and strengthens the exchange of experience

and know-how in innovative solutions for water management. Central Asian universities and

research organisations benefit from researcher mobility through the Horizon 2020 Marie

Skłodo ska-Curie

actions, as well as cooperating in research and innovation projects in the areas of

health, research infrastructure and migration.

Throughout 2018, in regional and bilateral dialogue formats, the EU has been confirming its interest

in stepping up engagement with Central Asia so that the region develops as a peaceful, resilient,

prosperous and more closely interconnected economic and political space. In 2018, the EU launched

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wide-ranging consultations on a new strategy on Central Asia to update the original strategy dating

from 2007.

3.3.2.2. Working better together, development effectiveness and partner coordination

As regards Central Asia, the relaxation of political and economic restrictions, as well as the

constructive regional dialogue following the recent changes in

Uzbekistan,

continued in 2018. The

Commission stepped up its dialogue with the latter to initiate its first budget support programme,

expected for 2019, and a trade programme aimed at supporting

Uz ekista s

accession to the WTO.

I Ju e

the EU s p ofile as a ke de elop e t pa t e fo the egio

as gi e a oost as a

esult of Co

issio e Mi i a s issio to

Tajikistan,

where he attended the International High-

Level Conference on International Decade for Actio

, Wate fo Sustai a le De elop e t , a d

discussed ways of improving the macroeconomic situation.

The 14th EU–Central Asia Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting took place in Brussels in November

2018, and both HR/VP Mogherini and Deputy Director-General K. Doens from the European

Commission attended. At this meeting, Central Asian countries confirmed their continued interest in

further enhancing regional cooperation and engagement with the international community on key

development issues.

3.3.2.3. Working towards the SDGs

SDGs are being addressed in the region through bilateral and regional programmes. The Commission

increased its efforts to tackle climate change in the region and supported the water and energy

sectors, livestock development and educatio

efo , i ludi g o e s edu atio . It also

contributed to peace, stability and economic development.

3.3.2.4. Implementation

The Commission has increased its efforts to tackle climate change in the region. This includes

adopting a new EUR 47 million programme to promote SCP (Switch Asia and Central Asia). Through

this programme, the existing Switch Asia engagement is being extended to Central Asia, while the

overall programme structure has been revised into a more coherent and mutually reinforcing

approach with a focus on consolidating policy dialogue and leveraging additional investments.

New bilateral programmes were also adopted for

Uzbekistan

and

Kyrgyzstan.

Livestock

development is supported with EUR 15 million in Uzbekistan while EUR 10 million is allocated for

improved public service delivery in rural areas. Concerning budget support, education reform in

Kyrgyzstan is to be boosted by EUR 11.66 million.

Under the Regional Indicative Programme for Central Asia, four new programmes totalling EUR 88

million were adopted in 2018. The EU supports regional cooperation among Central Asian countries

in key areas such as water, environment and climate change, disaster risk reduction, and border

management.

Positive dynamics in the regional cooperation between Central Asia and

Afghanistan

are an

important element contributing to peace, stability and economic development. A number of EU-

fi a ed p oje ts, su h as Ad a i g Afgha T ade o the oss- o de Afgha ista –Tajikistan

project on supporting cooperatio

a d oppo tu ities fo egio al e o o i de elop e t , ha e

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

contributed in 2018 to strengthening such cooperation. Afghanistan will also be involved in the next

phase of the Bo de a age e t i Ce t al Asia p oje t, u de p epa atio as of De e e

2018.

A project promoting trilateral cooperation on education for Afghan women in Kazakhstan and

Uzbekistan is being designed in 2018.

Central Asia benefits from EU investment contributions of around EUR 30 million for bilateral

projects, mainly through the Investment Facility for Central Asia (IFCA). Support focuses on the

energy and water sectors. The EBRD is the most important partner, benefiting from nearly 90 % of

the value of signed contracts.

3.3.2.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Afgha ista s p ot a ted isis

As the Afghan conflict goes into its 17th year, Afghan people face multiple humanitarian challenges

with an increasing number of civilian casualties, protracted displacement and the destruction of the

already poor infrastructure for basic services. In addition, the country is suffering a severe drought

for the fifth year in a row. As a result, some 600 000 people have been displaced internally and are in

need of humanitarian assistance. More than 13 million people face a situation of food insecurity.

About 850 000 deportees came back from Iran and Pakistan in 2018, many of them with nowhere to

go and in need of assistance.

Despite the shrinking humanitarian space and very challenging security conditions, the EU continued

to provide life-saving assistance in Afghanistan, especially in the most remote and underserved

areas. A total of EUR 46 million was granted through the EU budget for relief operations. As a result

of this action, the EU provided nutritional aid and food assistance to approximately 1.5 million

beneficiaries. More than two million beneficiaries received water, sanitation and health support. At

least 25 000 deportees from Iran received direct support upon their arrival in Afghanistan.

3.3.2.6. Crisis response and preparedness

The IcSP continues to contribute to regional stability in Central Asia and, in particular, support

actions intended to counter terrorism and violent extremism, to prevent conflict over natural

resources and to help youth in post-conflict areas. While no new initiatives were announced in 2018,

the implementation of programmes at regional and country levels continues.

On a regional basis, the IcSP is supporting professional, conflict-sensitive reporting among journalists

in Central Asia. This programme strengthens critical thinking among young men and women through

visualisation of the stories of people affected by destructive radical and extremist narratives and

deeds, explaining in various innovative media formats the vulnerability to and consequences of

violent extremism and radicalisation as well as the preventive measures required to address these

areas.

The IcSP also provides support for judicial and social actions promoting enduring stability and peace

in Central Asia. Launched in 2018, this regional action focuses on fighting discrimination and includes

a strong capacity-building component for lawyers, human rights defenders and law enforcement

agencies. The action also provides evidence-based research, advocacy and strategic litigation

actions, free legal aid, internships and multicultural education. The action is implemented in close

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coordination with the OSCE and UN agencies, notably with parallel support from the United Nations

Peacebuilding Fund.

Kyrgyzstan,

three IcSP actions continued support for civil society initiatives that promote

constructive dialogue on religion and democracy, prevent violent extremism and foster a more

cohesive society.

3.3.3. Middle East/Gulf region

3.3.3.1. Introduction: Policy developments

Iraq

The EU continued its long-term support to Iraq, notably through humanitarian and resilience

interventions. This resulted in enhanced support for stabilisation, including demining, reconciliation

efforts and development assistance in key sectors, such as primary and secondary education and

local governance. Such activities were encompassed in January 2018 by the new EU strategy for Iraq,

as endorsed by Council conclusions. In February, HR/VP Mogherini co-chaired the International

Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq, held in Kuwait. On this occasion the EU pledged EUR 400

million for humanitarian, stabilisation and development assistance focusing on the human

dimension of reconstruction. On 12 May, elections were held for the Council of Representatives, and

the EU deployed an Election Experts Mission to Baghdad to provide independent recommendations

o the ele to al p o ess. E e though the te ito ial defeat of Da esh as a ou ed i De ember

2017, it still remains a major threat in Iraq. With its EU Advisory Mission Iraq, launched in October

2017 and reinforced until April 2020, the EU provides strategic advice and expertise to the Iraqi

authorities for the coherent implementation of the

i ilia di e sio of the I a i SSR p og a

The EU continued to firmly condemn all human rights violations committed in the country, calling for

perpetrators to be brought to justice while maintaining its opposition to the death penalty.

The GCC

The EU continued to support mediation efforts to solve the diplomatic stalemate in cooperation

which developed in June 2017 between

Qatar

on the one hand and

Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia

and the

United Arab Emirates

on the other. Against this background, the EU further strengthened

cooperation with the GCC Secretariat and with all GCC Member States individually.

Bilateral dialogue with

Qatar

and

Oman

led to the signature of non-legally binding cooperation

arrangements between the EEAS and the respective foreign affairs ministries to increase exchange

between officials and efforts to promote concrete cooperation initiatives.

Discussions with

Kuwait

focused on implementation of the Cooperation Arrangement signed in

2016, with the holding of the first Senior Officials Meeting in Brussels in November, co-chaired by

EEAS Secretary-General Schmid and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait

Aljarallah. The meeting saw both sides engage in a strategic review of bilateral relations, and it was

also an opportunity to explore areas for closer sectoral cooperation.

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Yemen

As the o fli t o ti ued i Ye e , e o i g the o ld s o st hu a ita ia

isis, the EU st o gl

backed the UN-led peace process and the work of the UN envoy. For this purpose, Council

conclusions were adopted in June 2018, calling again on all parties to cease hostilities and

advocating for a political solution to the crisis. Since the start of the conflict, the EU has mobilised

more than EUR 314 million, is one of the main humanitarian contributors in Yemen and continues to

lead advocacy efforts to ensure full humanitarian access. Furthermore, in coordination with the UN

and other partners, it has convened several awareness-raising initiatives on the conflict, promoted

trust building among the parties involved and formed comprehensive reflections on the future of the

country.

The Stockholm Agreement in December was a substantial achievement and the result of the first

political consultation among the parties since 2016. It was also the culmination of intense diplomatic

efforts by the international community, notably the EU, which remains a driving force for its

implementation.

3.3.3.2. Working better together, development effectiveness and partner coordination

A se i a o the Hu a ita ia a d De elop e t Ne us i I a a d the EU espo se as held i

Brussels in January 2018. It focused on operationalisation of the Humanitarian–Development Nexus

and was a significant step towards stronger coordination between EU services, EU Member States

and key international partners. A joint follow-up workshop was held in December 2018 in Baghdad

to share views with key partners and EU Member States on the humanitarian and development

needs in the country, key challenges ahead and priorities for future interventions, including the

future role of the EU in Iraq. A similar discussion took place in Amman in two different sessions with

Member States and UN/international NGOs on Yemen. On both occasions, EU Member States

welcomed this kind of exchange and expressed willingness to foster more coordinated (if not joint)

EU programming.

Outreach towards Arab partners and the GCC countries has continued in 2018 with visits to and from

Gulf-based international financial institutions. There is interest on both sides to find avenues for

concrete partnerships in several sectors and geographic areas (mainly the Horn of Africa, Iraq,

Yemen and, to a lesser extent, Asia and Central Asia). In September 2018, a technical mission was

deployed to the Gulf to explore possibilities for partnerships in the greater Red Sea region. The initial

feedback was positive and close follow-up is planned for 2019.

In 2018, EU collaboration with GCC countries continued in the area of research and innovation.

Important activities were pursued in the context of the GCC Clean Energy Network as well as others

aiming to: i) set up co-funding mechanisms in

Qatar

and

Kuwait

to support local researchers in

applying to Horizon 2020 calls, and ii) improve reciprocal access to third-country research

programmes (e.g. those of the Qatar Foundation).

3.3.3.3. Working towards the SDGs

The Co

issio s a ti ities i the egio o p ise

a series of multi-sector and multi-stakeholder

measures focusing on enhancing food security, improving livelihoods, creating jobs and improving

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access to economic opportunities, integrating service delivery and building capacity on sustainable

migration policies and management.

3.3.3.4. Implementation

I espo se to the halle ges i I a s e e t past, the Eu opea Co

issio pledged a additio al

EUR 400 million at the Reconstruction for Iraq conference held in Kuwait in February 2018. This

pledge is intended for humanitarian, stabilisation and development assistance to support the human

dimension of reconstruction. The package includes:



continued support for management of explosive hazards and demining activities in most

conflict-affected areas;

assistance to help recovery and stability through local development;

interventions aiming to promote sustainable job creation.



With an ongoing envelope of EUR 244 million, the EU is among the leading development

o t i uto s i Ye e . So fa , the Co

issio s sizeable

development assistance has supported the

resilience of the Yemeni population and helped prevent state institutions from collapsing. This

approach was reinforced in 2018 with the adoption of a new set of measures aiming to preserve the

social fabric, increase livelihood opportunities and improve food and nutrition security. Of a total

EUR 244 million, EUR 71 million was committed for these measures.

3.3.3.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

The

Syria conflict,

in its eighth year in 2018, continued to cause mass displacement, casualties and

tremendous suffering among the civilian population, with more than 13 million people in need of

humanitarian assistance inside the country.

The conflict is characterised by indiscriminate use of weapons in densely populated areas,

besiegement and starvation of populations, deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian

infrastructure as well as humanitarian aid workers, sexual and gender-based violence, forced

displacements, arbitrary arrests and forced detention, summary executions, widespread

contamination of explosive remnants of war, recruitment and use of child soldiers and severe

restrictions of humanitarian access.

The Commission continued to deliver life-saving assistance and support to millions of people

throughout the country from all humanitarian hubs, including across conflict lines and international

border crossings. This assistance contributed to the vital delivery of food, medicine, water and

shelter items for millions of Syrians directly affected and/or internally displaced by the conflict. In

neighbouring

Lebanon,

EU humanitarian funding has contributed to cash assistance for the most

vulnerable refugees, secondary healthcare for life-saving cases, non-formal education and shelter

–

including water, hygiene and sanitation

–

to improve the living conditions of the vulnerable families

most affected by displacement. In

Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon

and

Turkey,

the Commission supports the

most vulnerable refugees through, among other things, cash assistance, as this is considered the

most cost-efficient and dignified mode of delivery. In 2018, and in accordance with the

commitments of the second Brussels Conference on Supporting Syria and the Region, the EU

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committed EUR 260 million to support Syrians both inside the country and in neighbouring countries

(in addition to contributions through the EU Facility for Refugees in Turkey).

For most of 2018, the situation in

Yemen

remained characterised by ongoing conflict, directly

affecting civilians and with blatant violations of international humanitarian law. Yemen is the largest

humanitarian crisis worldwide (Humanitarian System-Wide Emergency

–

Level 3 crisis) (

). At the

end of 2018, according to the UN, 22.2 million people are in need of humanitarian and/or protection

assistance. The conflict and its disproportionate economic consequences on civilians are driving the

largest food security emergency in the world. As of December 2018, 20 million people are food-

insecure, 9.6 million of whom are one step away from famine.

During 2018, the Commission made significant efforts to scale up its response to the Yemen crisis,

both in the north and the south of the country, reaching a total allocation of EUR 127.5 million. With

these funds, the Commission supports life-saving interventions to conflict-affected populations and

to people suffering from food insecurity, poor nutrition and ill health. Protection, logistics, education

in emergency and advocacy are mainstreamed or supported by stand-alone projects. Over 14 million

vulnerable people have been reached through this assistance.

Iraq,

where the large-scale military campaign has ended and ISIS is defeated territorially,

humanitarian assistance remains crucial to assist the most vulnerable people in retaken areas as well

as those displaced and in detention. As of December 2018, there are still limited investments in

areas of return with recovery and rehabilitation activities. The UN estimates that as many as 6.7

million people are still in need of humanitarian aid and over 1.8 million are internally displaced (in

addition to 252 000 Syrian refugees) (

100

). A total of EUR 40 million has been committed for

humanitarian assistance in Iraq. At the same time, Commission services and contributors are

working in the framework of the Humanitarian–Development Nexus to support more sustainable

solutions for the livelihoods of war-affected populations.

Palestine,

the humanitarian situation deteriorated further during the year, particularly in Gaza,

where two million people continue to live in an enclave with limited access to essential services

ha i g ee adl affe ted

the o se ue es of the G eat Ma h of Retu . The Co

issio s

support focused mostly on strengthening the health sector, which was overburdened by the

thousands of injuries, in particular gunshot wounds. In the West Bank, the Commission continues to

protect the most vulnerable people (approximately 8 000) living in a coercive environment and who

are at risk of forcible displacement.

3.3.3.6. Crisis response and preparedness

With EUR 33 million allocated in 2018 under the IcSP, the

Syria crisis

has constituted a priority for

stabilisation engagement with exceptional assistance measures conducted both inside Syria and the

neighbouring countries affected by the conflict. In 2018, four new IcSP exceptional assistance

measures were adopted in this context.

The IASC Principals have agreed that major sudden-onset humanitarian crises triggered by natural disasters or conflict that require

system-wide mobilisation (Level 3 or L3 emergencies) are to be subject to a humanitarian system-wide emergency activation to ensure a

more effective response to the humanitarian needs of affected populations. This measure will only be applied for exceptional

circumstances where the gravity justifies mobilisation beyond normally expected levels, while recognising the complementarity of

humanitarian systems.

100

Sources:

https://www.unocha.org/iraq; https://data2.unhcr.org/en/situations/syria/location/5.

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Syria,

the Syria Peace Process Support Initiative, co-funded by Germany, has provided a multitrack

and flexible support to the Geneva peace process on the basis of UN Security Council Resolution

(UNSCR) 2254. The peace initiative has been instrumental in helping Syrian civil society engage in

political transition, stabilisation and rehabilitation of the country, notably through support to the

Ci il So iet Suppo t Roo a d the Wo e s Ad iso Boa d. P o isio of suppo t fo edu atio i

opposition-held areas continues, while monitoring developments on the ground closely (notably, in

Idlib). In April 2018, a EUR 10 million exceptional assistance measure was adopted to foster mine

a tio i a eas li e ated f o Da esh the Glo al Coalitio a d A

-Raqqa city and Governorate and

part of Deir Ez-Zor Governorate. Last but not least, the IcSP is helping to promote accountability for

crimes committed during the Syrian conflict through the International, Impartial and Independent

Mechanism.

Lebanon,

two IcSP activities were adopted in the wake of the Rome II Ministerial Meeting, in

March 2018, in support of the armed forces and internal security forces. Since June 2018, the EU has

been offering a mix of expertise and equipment to secure Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport

against illicit trafficking and the threat of terrorism. In December 2018, CBSD was mobilised for the

first time in the EU Neighbourhood, with the aim of consolidating the presence of the Lebanese state

south of Litani River. The intervention will cover infrastructure works (headquarters) to allow for the

deployment of the

Le a ese A ed Fo es Model Regi e t i U ifil s a ea of ope atio s, i li e

with UNSCR 1701.

Jordan,

the IcSP supported efforts to counter violent extremism by helping to decrease the risk of

terrorist organisations exploiting social media networks by targeting young people. This was done by

advancing Media and Information Literacy (MIL) as a holistic response to prevent hate and violent

extremism. The action strengthened the capacities of public institutions (universities and schools),

media and education professionals and CSOs to tackle violent extremism through MIL in four

go e o ates: I id, Ma a , Maf a a d Za a.

Iraq,

the IcSP helped to provide space for local conflict resolution and prevention and to reduce

local sources of violence through dialogue among community leaders and resolution of grievances

between local actors and the Iraqi government, thus contributing to a broader reconciliation

initiative. Actions of this nature also contribute to the stabilisation of Iraq by addressing the multiple

factors that might cause violence at the community level, including the return of young people that

joined armed groups in the fight against ISIS. The IcSP also continued to support Iraq in the areas of

SSR and rule of law, reinforcing the

I a i i tellige e o

u it s a ilit to oo di ate a d e ge

information in a manner compliant with human rights and the rule of law.

Yemen,

the IcSP is supporting a system of city profiling designed to collect and present statistical

data at city and neighbourhood levels in order to identify areas of greatest need and concern.

Furthermore, a Track II mediation initiative is ongoing to provide financial, technical and operational

support to peacebuilding processes in the country (

101

While Track I diplomacy refers to official contacts between government representatives, Track II diplomacy is more informal: it is

carried out between unofficial contacts such as non-governmental actors to find common ground as a complement to official contacts.

101

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3.3.4. The Pacific

3.3.4.1. Introduction: Policy developments

Climate change continues to be the single greatest threat to the Pacific region, challenging progress

towards achieving the SDGs. Building on the alliance forged for concluding the Paris Agreement on

climate, the EU and Pacific countries continued to cooperate towards implementation of the

agreement. In particular, the EU supported

Fiji

throughout its presidency until handing it over to

Poland at COP24 in Katowice, highlighting the plight caused by climate change in the Pacific.

Ocean governance, the marine environment and the fight against IUU fishing were at the centre of

high-level discussions held during the 2018 Our Ocean Conference in Bali.

With the existing Economic Partnership Agreement delivering economic advantages to participating

countries

Fiji

and

Papua New Guinea, Samoa

acceded to the agreement and the

Solomon Islands

concluded negotiating its market access offer to accede next.

With Pacific Island countries being hit frequently by extreme weather events (such as cyclone Gita in

Tonga in February 2018), disaster preparedness and building resilience in communities affected by

climate change continue to be among the most urgent tasks to be tackled in the region.

With the official launch on the side-lines of the UN General Assembly in September, negotiations

between the EU and ACP have started with a view to concluding a Cotonou follow-up agreement as

of 2020.

In 2018, the EU held high-level meetings with

East Timor, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru

and

Palau,

during

which issues such as human rights and democracy, rule of law, tax good governance, cooperation

towards achieving the SDGs and increased cooperation in international forums were addressed. The

EU also encouraged partners to ratify and implement UN conventions on human rights and the

Rome Statute of the ICC, where appropriate.

3.3.4.2. Working better together, development effectiveness and donor coordination

The joint launch of the Pacific Initiative on Biodiversity, Climate Change and Resilience with

Australia, France and New Zealand in the margins of the One Planet Conference in New York in

September 2018 offered new possibilities to increase the engagement of the EU, its Member States

and like-

i ded pa t e s to p o ote o ea go e a e a d the lue e o o

ithi the Pa ifi

region.

Representatives of the Commission attended the post-forum dialogue of the 49th Pacific Islands

Forum Leaders Meeting in Nauru on behalf of Commissioner Mimica in September 2018. The

signature of the EUR 45 million Pacific–European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) delegation

agreements with the Forum Fisheries Agency, the Pacific Community, the Secretariat of the Pacific

Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the University of South Pacific took place. Still at the

post-forum dialogue, a EUR 2 million top-up to the ongoing sector reform performance contract

(budget support) with the

Kingdom of Tonga

(for reconstruction after tropical cyclone Gita) was

sig ed i the p ese e of the EU Me e States a d To ga s P i e Mi

ister.

At a side e e t of the COP i De e e

i Kato i e, Pola d, the Pa ifi i itiati e fo

iodi e sit , li ate ha ge a d esilie e as p ese ted. So fa , this i itiati e has e ei ed suppo t

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

from the EU, Australia, Canada, France and New Zealand (more than EUR 27 million). The AFD will be

responsible for implementation and will work closely with the relevant Council of the Regional

Organisations in the Pacific agencies, in particular the Pacific Community and the SPREP. The aim is

to increase

Pa ifi ou t ies apa ities to adapt to the effe ts of li ate ha ge, to p ote t, esto e

a d e ha e its u i ue iodi e sit a d to i ease ou t ies esilie e.

3.3.4.3. Working towards the SDGs

The Commission addresses a wide range of SDGs in the area. Root causes of gender inequality and

violence against women are tackled through education, prevention of violence and access to support

services for victims of violence. Strong support is given to develop resilience against the negative

effects of climate change and to the integration of climate finance into national budgets. Initiatives

are also implemented to support sustainable energy services.

3.3.4.4. Implementation

The implementation of the EUR

illio p og a

e Ta kli g oot auses of ge der

inequality and

iole e agai st o e a d gi ls i the Pa ifi

as lau hed ith the sig atu e of the fi a i g

ag ee e t at the Pa ifi Isla ds Fo u Leade s Meeti g i Apia i late

. I

, the

implementation of the programme started in earnest, with the signature in May of a contribution

agreement with UN Women. Concrete results on the ground have been achieved in 2018, addressing

gender equality in formal and informal education, promoting the prevention of violence against

women and girls at community level and providing concrete support for governments and CSOs to

ensure access to support services for survivors of violence. The Pacific Initiative preceded and

spearheaded other EU global initiatives on gender equality, including EU participation in the

Spotlight Initiative.

In 2018, allocation of support for regional investment projects was increased from EUR 44 million to

EUR 77 million. The aim is to promote sustainable investments, including through country allocations

for

Papua New Guinea

(EUR 15 million) and the

Solomon Islands

(EUR 18 million). Furthermore, the

egio al A ual a tio p og a

, hi h i ludes a Waste a age e t Pa Waste Plus

programme (EUR

illio a d a Pu li fi a ial a age e t PFM a d go e a e p ogramme

(EUR 11 million), was adopted in 2018. PacWaste Plus facilitates sector policy dialogues to promote

i ula e o o ies. The PFM a d go e a e p og a

e o ple e ts e isti g udget suppo t

operations within EU bilateral cooperation. It also provides for capacity building to better integrate

and monitor climate finance into national budgets, which is expected to increase significantly in the

future.

I the Pa ifi , suppo t a ti ities fo the Blue e o o

a d o se atio p og a

e a e p o ided

through

the Pa ifi EU a i e pa t e ship p og a

e to i ease the Pa ifi Isla d states

resilience against the negative effects of climate change. In an effort to enhance regional

integration, synergies are sought with the regional OCTs programme, supporting environment,

sustainable management of natural resources, biodiversity and climate change. Common

coordination mechanisms include, for example, the selection of common implementing partners,

such as the SPREP or the Pacific Community.

In 2018, the Partnership Instrument continued to contribute to EU external action in

Australia,

notably by enhancing the understanding and visibility of the EU and its role on the world scene by

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

ea s of the EU–Aust alia leade ship fo u p oje t. The o e all o je ti es of

the contract are to

deepen and broaden the EU–Australia partnership, using the EU–AUS Framework Agreement as a

reference point, and to ensure that other opportunities for engagement are further expanded,

including broadening of the political, research and innovation, economic and trade investment

relationships.

New Zealand,

2018 saw the signature of the Partnership Instrument-fu

ded o t a t Co du ti g

legal a al sis of Ne Zeala d s easu es a d legislatio elated to t ade a d i est e t issues ,

i g to st e gthe the EU s egotiati g positio i the o te t of the up o i g EU–New

Zealand

FTA negotiations.

The amount of EUR 20 million has been committed to the Investment Facility for the Pacific (IFP).

Private-sector-oriented opportunities with those international financing institutions eligible under

the Co

issio s le di g fa ilit IFP o DCI ite ia a e e li ited. As of De e e

,o l

the EIB and the Asian Development Bank are active in the region. In 2018, two projects were

approved

at the O to e DCI oa d eeti g: the Pa ifi i o, s all a d ediu e te p ise fi a e

p oje t EUR

12 million) will be implemented by the ADB to stimulate economic growth in four small

Pacific Island countries; and a contribution of EUR 8 million to the ElectriFI country window

dedi ated to the Pa ifi Isla ds e e a le e e g a ket.

3.3.4.5. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

In 2018, EU humanitarian intervention in the Pacific was limited to the provision of emergency

response in major disasters when local authorities were overwhelmed; for instance, in

Tonga

for

tropical cyclone Gita and in

Vanuatu

for the evacuation of the island of Ambae after the Manaro

Voui volcano erupted.

3.4.

Enlargement

3.4.1. Introduction

The IPA II aims to help beneficiaries adopt and implement the political, institutional, legal,

administrative, social and economic reforms required to comply with EU values and to align

p og essi el

ith the U io s ules, sta da ds, poli ies a d p a ti es, ith a ie to e o i g

members. As of December 2018, the beneficiaries are

Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo,

Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia

and

Turkey

the IPA e efi ia ies . I the pe iod

–

2020, the envelope for supporting preparation for accession as well as regional support and CBC will

reach about EUR 12.8 billion.

In 2018, under IPA II, the Commission adopted eight annual action programmes, including one multi-

country programme (total value of about EUR 797 million). In addition, three multi-annual

programmes to support TAIEX, connectivity as well as civil society and media were adopted (total

value of about EUR

illio . The Co

issio s

financial assistance in 2018 focused on regional

political priorities, in particular the fundamentals of enlargement, such as the rule of law and

democratic governance, economic growth and jobs, as well as other important priorities such as the

connectivity agenda, security and education. The programmes adopted in 2018 were in line with the

e la ge e t st ateg a d the fu da e tals fi st app oa h, a d the efle ted the p io ities

stemming from the

State of the Union address and the Western Balkans Strategy. Additional

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

financial support was also provided for multi-annual programmes in the areas of regional

development, rural development, employment, education and social inclusion.

The Commission also continued to support regional integration and good neighbour relations.

Nine

CBC programmes in the

Western Balkans

and a CBC technical assistance programme were adopted

in 2018.

Continuing with the Western Balkans countries, their participation in the Framework Programme for

Research and Innovation

–

Horizon 2020

–

has been particularly successful in 2018. Numbers of

participants from the region and competitive funding received (some EUR 23 million per year) have

steadily increased and are generating a tangible impact on the national research and innovation

landscape.

In 2018, implementation of the sector approach continued. Indeed, since the beginning of IPA II in

2014, the sector approach has produced strong improvement in the programming process,

especially in linking policy dialogue (among the institutions involved and between the EU and

beneficiaries) and financial assistance. Its outcomes are visible in terms of institutional

improvements in various IPA beneficiaries.

A total of EUR 400.4 million has been committed in the period 2014–2018 under sector reform

performance contracts with four IPA beneficiaries

–

Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro

and

Serbia

–

with

a focus on PAR.

In addition to Montenegro, North Macedonia and Turkey, in 2018 the European Commission

entrusted Albania and Serbia with budget implementation tasks for the execution of several

measures under rural development programmes. This allowed calls for project proposals to be

launched, for the individual projects to be implemented in 2019.

The focus on and efforts towards performance and results-based management under IPA II has

continued in 2018, in particular through training for IPA II beneficiaries on performance frameworks,

linking programming to monitoring and evaluation.

3.4.2. IPA priorities

The priorities of the pre-accession assistance derive from IPA regulation

–

specific objectives and

thematic priorities

–

and are aligned with the core principles of the Enlargement Policy. For

e la ge e t to e o e a ealit , a fi

it e t to the p i iple of fu da e tals fi st e ai s

essential. Structural shortcomings persist, notably in the key areas of the rule of law and the

economy. Accession candidates must deliver on the rule of law, justice reform, the fight against

corruption and organised crime, security, fundamental rights, democratic institutions and PAR as

well as on economic development and competitiveness. In line with these priorities, EU pre-

accession assistance remains focused on supporting fundamental reforms.

I Fe ua

, the Co

issio adopted the Co

u i atio o A edi le

enlargement

pe spe ti e fo a d e ha ed e gage e t ith the Weste Balka s , hi h puts fo a d a

comprehensive Action Plan to Support the Transformation of the Western Balkans and sets out

flagship initiatives in six areas:



the rule of law,

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



security and migration,

socioeconomic development,

connectivity,

a digital agenda,

reconciliation and good neighbourly relations.

At the EU–Western Balkans Summit in May 2018, EU leaders agreed on the Sofia Declaration and the

Sofia Priority Agenda, outlining measures for enhanced cooperation with the region, drawing largely

o the Co

issio s St ateg a d A tio Pla .

The EU continued work for improved connectivity both within the Western Balkans and between the

Western Balkans and the EU. The EU supports concrete i

est e ts i the Weste Balka s si

transport and energy networks, with the purpose of creating a regional environment conducive to

economic growth and job creation. EU assistance is also directed at fostering good relations with

neighbours in the region to help overcome the legacy of the past.

In the case of

Turkey,

the Commission decided to reduce the indicative allocation for the period

2018–2020 due to backsliding on key reforms and doubt over absorption capacity: that is, the ability

of Turkey to use EU funding swiftly, efficiently and to the full, in a timely manner. At the same time,

and in line with the orientations of the European Council, funds were reoriented towards the rule of

law, fundamental rights and civil society.

Finally, by assisting enlargement countries in tackling migration challenges, the EU continued to play

a pivotal role in driving forward policies and programmes aimed at stemming the influx of irregular

migrants to the EU.

3.4.3. Implementation

Bilateral cooperation, including budget support

Albania

The EU is the main contributor in Albania, providing an indicative EUR 639.5 million of assistance to

support reforms in the period 2014–2020. In 2018, key priorities for financial assistance included

PFM, PAR, justice reform, home affairs, employment and skills, and transport. In the same year,

Albania received entrustment of budget implementation tasks for rural development measures

under the 2014–2020 multi-annual programme, which allowed the actual implementation of the

programme to start.

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In the area of PFM, a sector reform performance contract contributed in particular to:



implementation of the revised budget law in compliance with fiscal rules;

approval of new public investment management guidelines;

a budget consultation process with CSOs and the general public;

appointment of all members of the public procurement review body;

progress in the area of external audit, including a new strategy for 2018–2022.

In the area of PAR, a sector reform performance contract supported implementation of the strategy

and has already shown measurable results in areas such as electronic services to citizens, civil service

recruitment and better regulation.

The Commission supported implementation of justice reform also through the deployment of an

international monitoring operation to re-evaluate (vet) Albanian judges and prosecutors. Core

monitoring activities are conducted by a team of international observers (seven from EU Member

States and one from the United States), who are embedded in every step of the work done by the

domestic vetting institutions. The vetting process has produced concrete results: more than 200

investigation dossiers have been processed, and around 100 decisions have been taken. On average,

for every magistrate confirmed in office, one is relieved of their duty.

, the EU e te ded the Eu alius p oje t fo the o solidatio of the justi e s ste , thus

further supporting justice reform, helping secure the effective implementation of the legislative

changes and reinforcing the new institutions created further to the justice reform. A sector reform

performance contract was also approved to support implementation of the justice strategy.

In the home affairs sector, the project for the consolidation of law enforcement

age ies, Pa e a ,

suppo ted the Mi ist of I te al Affai s, the state poli e a d Ge e al P ose uto s Offi e i thei

fight against organised crime and drug trafficking. It also responded to local community needs in

terms of public security and border management challenges relating to flow of migrants and asylum

seekers.

In the area of employment and skills, a sector reform performance contract supported

implementation of the Albania Strategy for Employment and Skills (2014–2020). It addressed in

particular the promotion of youth employment (especially entrepreneurship programmes targeting

young people), the establishment of multifunctional training centres and the reorganisation of VET

providers, resulting in an overall increase in VET enrolment and investment in teacher training.

In the transport sector, a sector reform performance contract supported implementation of the

Albanian transport strategy, focusing on road maintenance. The programme supported reform

measures for road transport in the areas of public procurement, technical and financial

management, road safety, sustainability and maintenance.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

The EU is the main contributor in Bosnia and Herzegovina, providing an indicative EUR 552.1 million

of assistance for the period 2014–2020 to support reforms.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

In 2018, intensified policy dialogue resulted in the formal adoption of a country-wide rural

development strategy, triggering for the first time an allocation of EUR 30 million for agriculture

under IPA II, and the adoption of a country-wide strategy on energy, allowing for possible further

support. These are significant positive developments considering the difficulties in planning

assista e a isi g f o Bos ia a d He zego i a s i stitutio al a d politi al o ple ities. The

finalisation of these strategies has allowed resumption of the full financial envelope initially

intended for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as approved in August 2018.

As regards the rule of law sector, during 2018, continuous EU support for development of a modern

judiciary in Bosnia and Herzegovina with a focus on the use of ICT and performance management

has helped in providing better, faster and more transparent services to citizens.

Thanks to EU support, the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council adopted new rules in 2018 to

improve the appointment procedures and performance appraisal of judges and prosecutors as well

as their integrity and professional training.

The judi ia s apa it fo p o essi g ases of a i es is ei g st e gthe ed ith IPA assista

supporting the salaries and material costs of courts and prosecutor offices all across Bosnia and

Herzegovina. The EU has also provided grants to the International Commission on Missing Persons,

contributing to addressing the persisting challenges of transitional justice. An EU-funded Twinning

project is further supporting the fight against money laundering and the implementation of Financial

Action Task Force recommendations, including on the financing of terrorist activities.

In view of inadequate infrastructure for the efficient operation of courts and prosecutor offices, EU

funds are provided for the (re)construction of judicial and prosecutorial premises. As of December

2018, 20 judicial institutions all over Bosnia and Herzegovina have been constructed, modernised

and renovated.

Moreover, following the significant influx of migrants since the beginning of 2018, the EU is helping

Bosnia and Herzegovina cope with increased migratory flows, notably by assisting migrants and

asylum seekers in meeting their basic needs (shelters, health, education services, etc.) and

strengthening border and migration management capacities.

In the area of democracy and governance, support is being provided to strengthen the role of the

four parliaments in the process of Bos

ia a d He zego i a s a essio to the EU a d i the

implementation of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement. Additional assistance has been

provided to improve overall internal financial control, especially in relation to the public

procurement and statistics systems. The EU has supported reform in civil service human resources

management by developing guidelines and practices for job classification, job description and

recruitment procedures.

In the area of competitiveness and innovation, ongoing EU-funded activities aim to strengthen local

economic development, improve local employment partnerships and increase the competitiveness

of SMEs (e.g. by facilitating access to finance, fostering development of SMEs, transferring best EU

practices via implementation of the Small Business Act for Europe, etc.). These activities

complement broader financial instruments available at the regional level.

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Kosovo

The EU is the main contributor in Kosovo, providing an indicative EUR 602.1 million of aid for the

period 2014–2020 to support reforms.

There are two sector reform performance contracts on PAR and on PFM, both subject to structured

poli dialogue i ol i g ele a t i ist ies, the p i e i iste s offi e a d ele a t pa lia e ta

committees. Stakeholders have been involved to ensure the adoption of key legislation with a view

to strengthening merit-based recruitment, accountability, transparency and efficiency.

Case study

Further support to education in public safety in Kosovo

Sustainable economic growth requires good-quality jobs. The Twinning project with partners from Finland

and Estonia (EUR 1.4 million financed under IPA) began in February 2016 and is due for completion in

January 2019. This project is relevant to SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth.

Context

The Kosovo Academy for Public Safety is the only institution delivering training to the staff of public safety

agents, including police, customs and correctional and probation services, thus having a direct impact on

the professionalism and quality of these services in Kosovo.

Objectives

The objective is to strengthen the rule of law by improving the education of public safety agents or, more

specifically, to provide high-quality public safety and security education, research and development in

Kosovo.

Impact

The following are some of the outcomes achieved.



Modern vocational curricula, in line with European best practices, for all public safety agencies

have been developed and implemented to train the first intake of more than 450 students.

Ba helo s P og a

e i Pu li Se u it has

December 2018, 260 enrolled.

edited

ith

stude ts a d, as of

Sustainable vocational training structures have been developed.

An e-learning platform and seven e-learning modules have been developed.

A student counselling system has been developed to ensure a student-centred approach and to

prevent dropout.

The Republic of North Macedonia

The EU is the main contributor to the Republic of North Macedonia, providing an indicative

EUR 608.9 million of assistance for the period 2014–2020 to support reforms.

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In 2018, the country agreed to draw up the first-ever sector reform performance contract (EUR 16.5

illio , ai i g to i p o e a ti e la ou a ket easu es a d oost outh e plo e t. The Pu li

financial management reform programme 2018–

, ke fo effe ti e i ple e tatio of the

contract, has been adopted. The programme also contributes to increasing transparency and

accountability and involving external stakeholders in policymaking.

Montenegro

The EU is the main contributor in Montenegro, providing an indicative EUR 279.1 million of

assistance to support reforms in the period 2014–2020.

In 2018, IPA II funds focused on the key area of rule of law and fundamental rights to address a

range of judicial, customs-focused and rights-centred initiatives. Complementing this, the agriculture

and rural development sector was also supported with a major new programme. Additionally, during

2018, a programme focused on health, social issues and education was added to the national

portfolio (EUR 36.2 million).

In 2018, existing programmes continued in a range of sectors, including environment, agriculture

and transport. Sector reform performance contracts in integrated border management and PAR had

an important impact during 2018 to support reforms in the country.

Additional support was also provided as part of the EUR

illio

Education, employment and

so ial poli ies p og a

e, lau hed i

. I pa allel ith this i po ta t i itiati e,

implementation of a number of other social programmes continued, aiming to address the

integration of Roma and other vulnerable groups.

Case study

Support for the implementation of Chapters 23 and 24 action plans

An ongoing project in the rule of law and fundamental rights sector contributes to SDG 16. It aims to

support the country in its work to prevent and counter corruption. It focuses on supporting the

implementation of integrity measures in relevant institutions and the work of the Agency for the Prevention

of Corruption. Objectives include enhanced efficiency of the judicial system and more effective

enforcement of legislation concerning the fight against organised crime and corruption, including:

improving the effectiveness of financial investigations; coordination amo

g the state p ose uto s offi e,

police, court authorities, customs administration and tax administration; and the improved enforcement of

integrity plans.

Serbia

The EU is the main donor in Serbia, providing an indicative EUR 1.54 billion of assistance to support

reforms in the period 2014–2020.

In 2018, assistance focused on four key sectors. In the area of

democracy and governance,

under

the European Integration Facility, specific actions supported legislative harmonisation with the EU

acquis communautaire

a d the st e gthe i g of Se ia s i stitutio al apa ities i diffe e t a eas. I

addition, the development of reliable statistics aimed to increase the availability, quality,

comparability and timeliness of high-quality and policy-relevant statistical data. In the area of

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

environment, climate action and energy,

the aim is to raise environmental standards in Serbia in

terms of air and water quality through the construction of a wastewater treatment plant, the

improvement of district heating systems through switching to renewable energy sources and a pilot

project to support energy efficiency. In the area of

competitiveness and innovation,

the focus is on

improving access to finance for SMEs, enabling them to innovate, initiate research and development

and invest in meeting EU standards. In addition, a specific action will contribute to developing the

tou ist i dust , i li e ith Se ia s tou is st ateg , as a e gi e of e o o i de elop e t i the

lower Danube area. Finally, in the crucial area of

education, employment and social policies,

the

focus will be on the social inclusion of marginalised people through housing, jobs, health, education

and social services.

Although the 2014–2018 programmes are still at an early stage, there are already some measurable

achievements. The sector reform performance contracts introduced under IPA II have contributed to

the achievement of tangible results in the key areas of PAR and PFM, integrated border

management and education. The assistance with governance- and accession-related priorities has

opened dialogue with Serbia in economic and monetary policy and statistics. The support directed at

improving competitiveness has improved access to finance for SMEs and enhanced innovation.

In terms of connectivity, in

transport,

the first phase of the modernisation of the railway line from

Nis to Dimitrovgrad (on the border with Bulgaria) is planned to commence in the second half of

2019. In

energy,

work on the important Trans-Balkan corridor electricity project has continued with

the completion of Section I between Serbia and Romania, helping establish a power corridor that will

connect the electricity transmission systems of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Serbia to

Croatia, Hungary, Italy and Romania.

In 2018, Serbia received entrustment of budget implementation tasks for some rural development

measures under the 2014–2020 multi-annual programme, which allowed the actual implementation

of the programme to start.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case study

Sector reform contract on education

This sector reform contract (EUR 27.4 million) aims to support implementation of key reforms in the

education sector. It focuses on improving the quality of teaching processes and of minority education,

increasing the inclusion of Roma and improving the relevance of the education system for the labour

market. There are four main achievements from the first year of implementation.



Training for teachers in elementary and high schools has begun so they can change the approach

towards a curriculum based on expected learning results. This reform is significant and will last for

a long time, but the first steps are the most important: the training creates professionals for the

futu e ho a tea h the e t ge e atio s o e effi ie tl . Se ia s edu atio s ste

eeds to

change: children should not be taught based on a predetermined list of topics, but with the aim of

achieving some clear results.

The availability of minority-language textbooks has increased, and training for teachers in minority

languages has improved. Languages represent a measure of wealth for a country, and Serbia has

improved this wealth with textbooks now available in eight minority languages, giving children

from these groups a quality education in their mother tongue.

The most vulnerable groups in society need specific support: 300 state-financed scholarships for

Roma secondary students were made available in the budget for the school year 2017/18. This

support has proven very successful in the past, especially when it targets Roma girls, so the aim is

to make it a continuous feature.

The EU is about growth and jobs: the project has supported the creation of a social partnership

linking education and the labour market. A new law on the National Qualifications Framework has

been adopted, allowing Serbia to align with the EU system and standards and to help the education

sector improve and adapt to new labour market needs.



Turkey

Regarding IPA assistance, the Commission decided in August 2018 to revise downwards the

indicative allocation of pre-accession funds for Turkey by EUR 759 million (EUR 253 million per year

and an overall 40 % reduction) for 2018–2020 in light of poor absorption capacity and backsliding on

key reforms. This followed the presidency conclusions of December 2016 calling for a reorientation

of pre-accession funding towards the rule of law, fundamental rights and civil society, and the

discussions on Turkey at the October 2017 European Council.

At the same time, the Commission reoriented the share of funding allocated to political reforms,

rising from 38.4 % of funds in 2014–2017 to 44.7 % in 2018–2020. This strengthened the focus on

democracy, rule of law and governance as well as support to civil society and people-to-people

contact. Structural fund-type programmes, designed to underpin the efforts of IPA beneficiaries at

an advanced stage of their pre-accession preparation, were sharply reduced.

The 2018 allocation for Turkey amounted to EUR 386.8 million, of which EUR 98.4 million was

allocated to:

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



support activities on fundamental rights, home affairs and energy;

co-fi

a e fo Tu ke s pa ti ipatio i the E as us+ p og a

enhancing people-to-people contacts between Turkey and the EU;

e i o de to o ti ue



promote civil society dialogue and the EU

acquis communautaire

th ough the Jea Mo

s hola ship p og a

EUR 12.4 million was allocated to support civil society. EUR 145 million was allocated to support

reforms in the climate, disaster risk management, emergency response capacities, civil protection,

transport, gender equality and social inclusion sectors, including minorities and people with

disabilities, as well as support for youth and vocational training. Finally, EUR 131 million was

allocated to agriculture and rural development.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case study

The Facility for Refugees in Turkey

The EU Facility for Refugees in Turkey became operational in February 2016. It has a total budget of EUR 6

billion, including EUR 3 billion from the EU budget and EUR 3 billion from Member States in the form of

externally assigned revenues. The first tranche of EUR 3 billion was mobilised in the 2016 and 2017 budget

years, and the second tranche of EUR 3 billion will be mobilised in the 2018 and 2019 budget years. The first

tranche has been fully committed and contracted, with 72 projects rolled out and showing tangible results.

More than EUR 2 billion of the first tranche has been disbursed, with the balance to be disbursed in the

course of implementation of facility projects by mid-2021. Of the second tranche, EUR 450 million was

contracted by the end of 2018 for a project that continues to provide access to education for Syrian

refugees and for protection interventions.

The facility is implemented as humanitarian and development assistance. Under the first tranche of the

humanitarian strand,

45 projects were contracted with 19 partners, covering basic needs, protection,

edu atio a d health. The EU add essed the eeds of pa ti ula l ul e a le efugees ia the E e ge

so ial safet et , e efiti g .

illio of the ost ul e a le. The Co ditio al ash t a sfe fo edu atio

programme was launched in 2017 and is the largest programme on education in emergencies ever financed

by the EU, facilitating access for refugees to formal education systems. As of October 2018, more than

410 000 children have attended school, and their families have also received financial support through this

programme. Under the second tranche, as of December 2018, EUR 50 million of humanitarian assistance

has been contracted.

Under the first tranche of the

development strand,

27 projects have been contracted, focusing on longer-

term livelihoods and socioeconomic and educational prospects of refugees. In education, a EUR 300 million

grant

–

implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of National Education

–

has supported the

integration of Syrian children into the Turkish education system, providing access to education for more

than 600 000 children. This support continues under the second tranche through a new EUR 400 million

project with the Ministry of National Education. In addition, regarding health, the facility is delivering

EUR 300 million in aid to ensure refugees can access healthcare services, with over 4 million primary

healthcare consultations completed and over 500 000 Syrian refugee children vaccinated as of December

2018. Furthermore, 143 migrant health centres are now operational, with over 2 000 staff employed. Under

the second tranche, the facility will continue to provide assistance in health, education, municipal

infrastructure and socioeconomic support, with a special focus on creating livelihood opportunities for

refugees in Turkey.

Further information on the Facility for Refugees can be found at:

https://ec.europa.eu/neighbourhood-

enlargement/news_corner/migration.

Regional cooperation

Continued efforts have accompanied bilateral assistance to strengthen regional cooperation. During

2018, the Commission continued to work closely with partners to improve cooperation within the

region and with the EU, connecting infrastructure, economies and people. The priorities have

featured prominently in the summits (both the EU–Western Balkans Summit in Sofia in May, with its

Declaration and Priority Agenda, and the Western Balkans Summit in London in July, with its

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

declarations on security matters and on missing persons) and the relevant ministerial-level

meetings.

The regional cooperation agenda is designed to increase dialogue on practical matters and reform

measures in the Western Balkans among prime ministers and ministers of transport, energy and

foreign affairs. Results in 2018 included the Headquarters Agreement with Serbia on the seat of the

Secretariat of the Transport Community Treaty in Belgrade, and the launch of the new digital agenda

for the region. Support was provided for the implementation of the Regional Economic Area Multi-

Annual Action Plan, and negotiations have started on the mutual recognition of qualifications and on

a regional roaming agreement.

Regional cooperation continued to focus on the connectivity agenda. A major outcome was achieved

at the Western Balkans Summit, in which a substantial connectivity package was delivered,

comprising 11 transport projects totalling EUR 190 million in grants and leveraging investments of

EUR 1 billion from partner international financial institutions in the WBIF. With IPA support,

important results of EU interventions here include development of the core transport network and

PECI, including associated connectivity reform measures. EU-fu

ded Co e ta te h i al assista e

also initiated implementation of four regional measures designed to improve road safety and

ai te a e, i stall a i tellige t t a spo t s ste a d i p o e oad o de ossi gs.

Reconciliation is a cornerstone for lasting peace in this area. At regional level, the Commission has

pursued a strong agenda for promoting and supporting reconciliation and good neighbourly

relations. Towards the end of 2018, the Commission delivered concrete actions to help narrow the

impunity gap, tackling the issue of missing persons, promoting the dissemination of truth, fostering

cultural cooperation through a more comprehensive and integrated approach to these issues and

engaging with different key partners in the region and at international level. Several steps were

take to help st e gthe ultu al ties a oss the egio , i ludi g the C eati e Eu ope p og a

to counter nationalistic narratives and build vibrant democracies by supporting civil society and

media. The Commission also provided political and financial support to the Regional Youth

Cooperation Office, inspired by the model of the Franco-German Youth Office created after World

War II. Continued support for housing care solutions for refugees and displaced persons in the

region was also provided such that, by the end of 2018 and thanks to the RHP, close to 4 000

housing units were delivered to the most vulnerable refugees and displaced families from the

conflict in the 1990s.

There has been extensive follow-up of the counterterrorism agenda in the Western Balkans with the

adoption of the Joint Action Plan on Counter-Terrorism for the Western Balkans.

CBC

The sixth flagship initiative of the Western Balkans Strategy

– Suppo ti g e o iliation

and good

eigh ou l elatio s –

is the common thread of the CBC programmes in the

Western Balkans,

rebuilding the links broken in the 1990s.

In 2018, operations (grant contracts) started being implemented in six out of the nine 2014–2020

CBC programmes among Western Balkans beneficiaries. The thematic priorities include:



promoting employment, labour mobility and social and cultural inclusion across borders;

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



protecting the environment and promoting climate change adaptation and mitigation, and

risk prevention and management;

encouraging tourism and cultural and natural heritage;

investing in young people, education and skills;

enhancing competitiveness, the business environment and the development of SMEs, trade

and investment.



Despite relatively limited resources (EUR 30.2 million IPA II as of December 2018), these

programmes and projects have managed to trigger real change for local communities, including for

vulnerable groups (minorities, young people, persons with disabilities, etc.). For example, they

provide opportunities for self-employment for persons with disabilities or acquisition of high-value

ICT knowledge for young people. As almost the only external actions realised in the peripheral areas

targeted, these programmes are highly visible and help build positive relations between the local

population and the EU.

IPA CBC programmes are not only bilateral programmes that connect local communities across the

o de ; the e e

a age to o e t ou t ies. O e e su essful e a ple is Via Di a i a , i

which stakeholders from five countries of the region pursuing a common purpose have shaped a

e tou ist att a tio fo ou tai t ekke s i the spi it of a atu al pilg i age. The E te sio of

ViP Di a i A p oje t, o t a ted i Fe ua

u der

the IPA CBC programme Albania–Kosovo,

will run until February 2020.

Turkey

has a bilateral CBC programme with Bulgaria to support economic, social and territorial

de elop e t i thei o

o o de a eas, a d it o ti ues its i ol e e t i the Bla k Sea asi

p og a

Furthermore, IPA CBC is a unique tool for building capacities of both national and local authorities

for the future management of EU structural funds upon accession.

3.4.4. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Turkey,

the largest host country of registered refugees, humanitarian activities are implemented

as part of the Facility for Refugees. The EU humanitarian funding to support refugees in Turkey

through the facility was EUR 1.4 billion between 2016 and 2017, with a further EUR 50 million under

the second tranche of the facility in 2018. This brings the total humanitarian funding already

allocated under the facility to EUR 1.45 billion. In 2018, the EU continued to address the needs of

refugees with high socioeconomic vulnerabilit

ia the e e ge

so ial safet et . This is a

humanitarian social assistance programme consisting of a debit card that delivers monthly,

unrestricted, multipurpose cash directly to vulnerable refugees. As of December 2018, over 1.5

million refugees have benefited from monthly cash transfers through the programme. The EU also

continued to facilitate access for refugee populations to formal education systems by reducing

barriers and providing the means for at-risk children to be able to go to school. Launched in 2017,

the o ditio al ash t a sfe fo edu atio p og a

e is the la gest e e p og a

e fi a ed

the EU on education in emergencies. As of December 2018, the families of over 410 000 children

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

attending school have received financial suppo

t th ough the o ditio al ash t a sfe fo

edu atio p og a

These projects are complemented by a number of other humanitarian aid

projects addressing protection issues, providing non-formal education and specialised healthcare

services.

Since the beginning of the refugee crisis, the European Commission has been assisting the refugees

and migrants transiting through the

Western Balkans.

In 2018, while the emergency response came

to its end, in September the existing humanitarian projects in Serbia were handed over to the EUTF

for

Syria.

Following the emergence of a new migratory route in May 2018, the Council of Ministers

of Bosnia and Herzegovina officially requested assistance from the EU. The European Commission

launched a timely response to the small-scale emergency. The assistance, amounting globally to

EUR 9.2 million, included EUR 2 million of humanitarian funding. It covered provision of emergency

shelter, food, water and sanitation, health and protection services and has reached the vast majority

of 24 000 refugees and migrants transiting through Bosnia and Herzegovina.

3.4.5. Crisis response and preparedness

In 2018, engagement under the IcSP in the Western Balkans focused on the implementation of

measures announced in 2017 to target crucial issues for the stability of the region, such as

supporting confidence-building measures between communities or, notably, promoting the EU-

facilitated dialogue between

Belgrade

and

Pristina.

In September 2018, three interventions were successfully launched to promote the normalisation of

relations between Belgrade and Pristina. The interventions aim to bring the EU-facilitated dialogue

closer to society and to strengthen it through broader and more active involvement of citizens. The

hope is that more and bette

i fo atio o the dialogue a d ho it positi el i pa ts people s

everyday lives will lead to greater acceptance of and, ultimately, support for advancing the dialogue.

CSOs, chambers of commerce, media and opinion leaders and experts from both sides will reflect on

how they can shape the course of the dialogue and bring the issues to the attention of the wider

public. Joint media initiatives and exchanges may result in more balanced and less one-sided

portrayals.

Kosovo,

the

I te

-community dialogue

th ough i lusi e ultu al he itage p ese atio

programme seeks to improve inter-community tolerance and respect for cultural identity and

he itage of the othe i Koso o. Follo i g a p e ious phase

–2018),

18 cultural and religious

sites have been rehabilitated. The renovation works also represented an occasion for members of

different multi-ethnic communities to strengthen bonds through joint activities. This second

intervention, started in May 2018, has a wider geographical scope and aims to bring the

communities together to work on intangible cultural heritage (such as traditions, performing arts,

cuisine, crafts, etc.). Women and young people play a central role in the activities.

The IcSP has also played a significant part in decreasing the threat of uncontrolled explosions posed

by chemically unstable and highly hazardous ammunition and remnants of war in

Bosnia and

Herzegovina.

The EU sta p og a

e also ai s to t a sfe the k o ledge a d e pe ie e gai ed

from the programme and its contractors to local personnel, thereby developing self-reliance in the

country to destroy unexploded ordnance (2017–2019). In line with the Ottawa Mine Ban Treaty

(1997), the IcSP will continue its efforts to clear as yet uncovered mines from Bosnia and

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Herzegovina. Efforts to map the remaining contaminated areas

–

in partnership with the Bosnia and

Herzegovina Mine Action Centre

–

will pave the way for a full decontamination. These programmes

are implemented in close coordination with Operation Althea (formally the European Union Force in

Bosnia-Herzegovina). In addition, another Commission action aims to ensure access to justice for

witnesses and victims by strengthening existing, and establishing new, witness support networks

across the country.

Turkey,

engagement under the IcSP remains significant, in large part as a response to the regional

consequences of the conflicts in Syria and Iraq. Following completion of a first action to provide the

Turkish Coast Guard with six boats to conduct search and rescue operations as a response to the

migration crisis in February 2018, a second action was adopted in September 2018 and should

provide nine additional search and rescue vessels.

In parallel, support for counterterrorism and the prevention of violent extremism is ongoing, in

particular through training provided by the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training

(CEPOL) in collaboration with the Turkish National Police Institute, as well as research and policy

recommendations on how best to address common threats represented by foreign terrorist fighters.

The IcSP also finances mediation activities, bringing together representatives from various Turkish

politi al pa ties to dis uss politi al solutio s a ou d the Ku dish issue .

3.4.6. Working better together, contributor effectiveness and donor coordination

Albania,

following the revised structure of the government, contributor coordination was

transferred to the Ministry of Finance and Economy at the end of 2017. However, the EU delegation

provided support throughout the year because the ministry was unable to manage contributor

coordination for most of 2018 due to fragmentation of roles and mandates across departments

specifically related to coordination and overview of foreign aid and reform implementation. In 2019

it will place greater emphasis on the ministry taking charge of this function in a more structured and

efficient way. More regular contributor coordination meetings took place with the government in

the field of PAR, PFM, justice, agriculture, and employment and VET, including the monitoring of

sector reform performance contracts.

Bosnia and Herzegovina,

contributor coordination is shared among different bodies. While IPA

assistance is coordinated by the Directorate for European Integration, international aid is generally

coordinated through the Bosnia and Herzegovina Ministry of Finance and Treasury. In specific

sectors, such as agriculture and rural development, the state-level sector Ministry for Foreign Trade

and Economic Relations is recognised among contributors as a lead institution in contributor

coordination for the sector. In the course of 2018, the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, supported

by Switzerland and the United States Agency for International Development, undertook assessment

of the contributor assistance mechanism in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the aim of improving it.

The assessment findings and recommendations are expected in the first quarter of 2019. The EU

delegation contributed to the exercise by improving the overall contributor coordination in Bosnia

and Herzegovina, ensuring a significant degree of coherence with EU Member States in a number of

sectors. This was strengthened through two general aid coordination meetings with EU Member

States and other key partners, including international organisations, as well as a number of sectoral

and bilateral meetings.

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Kosovo,

given the volume of financial assistance and the number of contributors, coordination

among all involved stakeholders remains essential in order to ensure efficient use of EU funding,

especially in sectors such as rule of law and fundamental rights. Close cooperation with Member

States, international financial institutions and other bilateral contributors resulted in several

agreements between the EU and other partners in different fields, optimising the use of expertise

available.

In the Republic of

North Macedonia,

the responsibility for contributor coordination lies with the

Secretariat for European Affairs. Contributor coordination is an inherent part of the sector approach

to managing IPA financial assistance. Nine sector working groups have been established, serving as

platforms for discussing sector priorities and implementation, and involving national authorities,

contributors and civil society. The programming of IPA assistance is fully embedded in the sector

working groups, ensuring the relevance, efficiency and visibility of EU funding. Another element for

improving aid efficiency and contributor coordination is ensured by the government. Particularly

important is the instrumental role played by the National Investment Committee in planning big

infrastructure projects of regional importance. In 2018, the single project pipeline was reassessed

a d updated a d ill e ha e o t i uto s oo di atio i e su i g egio al o e ti it a d

protection of the environment.

Montenegro,

the PAR sector reform performance contract, which as of December 2018 is in its

first year of implementation, is a good example of the importance of contributor cooperation.

Financed under the 2017 Action Programme (EUR 15 million), the programme focuses on the

implementation of the cou

t s PAR St ateg

–2020.

This key national strategy is centred on

optimising the number of civil servants, enhancing human resources management, improving the

quality of public service delivery through simplification of procedures and increasing the

t a spa e

of pu li se i es. I the p og a

e s o te t, dialogue a o g ilate al a d

international partners was extended, and an updated contributor matrix is now helping to avoid

overlaps and, importantly, maximise synergies. At a more technical level, an EU-led coordination

structure also exists among stakeholders involved in ongoing projects in the rule of law sector.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Justice is also strengthening its efforts to organise an efficient

contributor coordination system for actions implemented in this sector. Equally, in the social sector,

further cooperation between the EU, the authorities and other contributors is underway. More

globally, the EU is encouraging the government of Montenegro to work towards creation of an

overarching government-led contributor coordination mechanism.

Serbia,

reforms are geared towards EU accession as well as to the 2030 Agenda goals, and

priorities are programmed accordingly. All major development partners are programming along the

same strategic framework. Further, IPA II programming is based on the sector reform strategies and

in full consultation and coordination with development partners, ensuring full coherence and

complementarity of the support. The government plays an active role in contributor coordination.

Ten sector working groups have been set up to coordinate contributors in Serbia. The EU delegation

is the lead contributor for justice, home affairs, PAR, transport, agriculture and rural development,

as well as the sector relevant to civil society. Other development partners are leading in the areas of

environment and climate change, energy, competitiveness and human resource development,

together with the participation of the EU.

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Turkey,

the EU delegation regularly organised consultations and coordination meetings with EU

Member States, other contributors and key partners, including international financial institutions,

UN agencies, civil society and private sector organisations, on the programming and implementation

of EU assistance. The Facility for Refugees coordinates with the Turkish government and most of

these partners. International financial institutions are very active with loan programmes, particularly

in energy, PSD, transport and the environment. The Council of Europe, OECD SIGMA, several UN

agencies and other specialised international organisations are also active in Turkey, working on

judicial reform, fundamental rights, migration and border management, employment and social

policies. However, there is no regular contributor coordination led by the Turkish authorities, despite

attempts through some initiatives (the Regional Refugee and Resilience Plan (3RP), etc). Regular

meetings chaired by the Turkish side would be beneficial for exchange of information, sharing of

experience, avoidance of double funding and support for the sector approach. On the Turkish side,

the Ministry for Foreign Affairs is in charge of coordination for IPA, and the Office of the Vice-

President is coordinating for the Facility for Refugees. In parallel, for investment-related loans, the

Turkish Ministry of Treasury and Finance has been playing a key role.

regional level,

the WBIF is the main tool for contributor coordination and acts as a blending

platform that ensures optimal division of labour. The WBIF supports socioeconomic development

and EU accession across the Western Balkans region through the provision of technical assistance

and investment grants for strategic projects in the fields of environment, energy, transport, social

and digital infrastructure and PSD. The WBIF seeks to maximise the impact of its grant financing by

joining forces with financial institutions providing loans to the projects it supports. Moreover, it

ensures the effective coordination of the key actors in the field, both in terms of projects and

policies. Finally, it promotes an integrated priority investment pipeline from the beneficiaries. The

WBIF receives allocations from IPA I and IPA II as well as grants and loans from international financial

institutions.

3.4.7. Working towards the SDGs

Commission assistance in the WBT contributes to several SDGs. Given strong IPA focus on rule of

law, human rights, institution building, legal approximation and public sector reforms, SDG 16 is by

far the goal most targeted by IPA assistance. At the same time, substantial IPA support for

infrastructures, both at bilateral and regional levels, contributes to clean water and sanitation

(SDG 6) in the case of

Albania,

affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) in the case of

Bosnia and

Herzegovina, Serbia

and

Turkey,

and environment and climate action (SDG 13) in

Serbia.

Sector

support programmes in favour of health, education, employment and social policies are also

financed in several beneficiaries, thus contributing to SDG 4 (education), SDG 8 (decent work and

economic growth) and SDG 10 (reduced inequality).

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Case studies

Support for the water sector in Albania

The programme has contributed to most SDG 6 targets. The assistance has included a series of

infrastructure projects to build wastewater collection and treatment facilities, including technical assistance

to improve policy development. This has largely contributed to the following targets:



6.1 Drinking water,

6.3 Water quality and wastewater,

6.5 Water resources management,

6a International cooperation and capacity building,

6b Stakeholder participation.

An additional action has been approved in the water sector in 2018 which will further contribute to the

achievement of SDG 6 targets and, specifically, 6.1 Drinking water. As a result, the National Baseline Report

o SDG alig e t lassified alig e t ith Al a ia s atio al de elop e t poli f a e o k fo SDG

6 as

ode ate

%).

In 2018 the Commission implemented, in cooperation with ETF, a diagnosis assessment of the vocational

and training sector (VET) strategy in

Montenegro.

It focused on the governance and financing issues, aiming

at an analytical report that serves as a basis for national policy discussions (and possible future improved

strategies). To that end, a diagnostic tool was developed, to assess the credibility of the VET strategies in

NEAR countries. This tool supports ministries in better defining priorities, maintaining an overview and in

monitoring reform. This in turn links to PAR processes and EU financial assistance, and supports assessments

made in the context of the VET sector budget support operations.

3.5.

European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI)

3.5.1. European Neighbourhood East

3.5.1.1. Introduction: Priorities and policy developments

During 2018, the EU continued to develop its relations bilaterally under the ENP and multilaterally

under the Eastern Partnership dimensions

–

both firmly based on common values, mutual interests,

shared ownership, responsibility, differentiation and mutual accountability

–

to deliver tangible

results to citizens. The Eastern Partnership continued to be mutually beneficial for the EU as well as

the six partner countries:

Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova

and

Ukraine.

In addition,

the EU focused on the implementation of joint commitments undertaken at the Eastern Partnership

Summit of November 2017 and on showcasing the tangible results the Eastern Partnership policy

brings to the citizens of partner countries.

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The EU also continued to play an active role in bilateral relations with the six countries. Against the

backdrop of political change and a peaceful protest movement that led to the election of parliament

and appointment of a new prime minister, EU relations with

Armenia

have focused on preparation

and implementation of a roadmap to anticipate legislation in the Comprehensive and Enhanced

Partnership Agreement. The year 2018 was also marked by continuous efforts to negotiate a new

agreement with

Azerbaijan

to replace the 1996 version and by the endorsement of Partnership

Priorities. Critical engagement with

Belarus

continued, also in the context of ongoing negotiations

over Partnership Priorities. The final Partnership Priorities document will be the first jointly agreed,

broad political framework for an EU–Belarus relationship. Finally, with regard to

Georgia, Moldova

and

Ukraine,

the EU continued to support implementation of the ambitious Association

Agreements/DCFTAs. With the EU, Georgia jointly agreed priority actions for future cooperation in

li e ith the Asso iatio Age da a d the

Deli e a les fo

. I additio , the EU e p essed

the expectation that Moldovan authorities would take action regarding the electoral framework and

the judicial system as well as action against corruption ahead of the parliamentary elections

scheduled for February 2019. Following the non-transparent invalidation of the mayoral elections in

the capital Chisinau (June 2018), EU assistance to Moldova was recalibrated and refocused on

projects directly benefiting citizens and supporting civil society. Ukraine continued to make progress

on its reform agenda with the help of EU financial and technical assistance based on the guiding

framework in place.

The work of the multilateral dimension continued to focus on sectoral cooperation, achieving

ta gi le esults a d deli e i g su sta tial ha ges i fou ke p io ities, as aptu ed i the

Deli e a les fo

do u e t

(

102



strengthening institutions and good governance;

economic development and market opportunities;

connectivity, energy efficiency, environment and climate change;

mobility and people-to-people contacts.

Since the 2017 Eastern Partnership Summit, good progress has been noted across all areas,

particularly in the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) (

103

) and the fields of trade, economy,

digital connectivity, energy efficiency, energy security and young people. However, challenges

remain in the areas of rule of law, shrinking space for civil society and independent media.

3.5.1.2 Implementation

Bilateral cooperation, including budget support

Armenia

The year 2018 marked a significant political change in Armenia following the protests in April–May

2018 (widely des

i ed as a el et e olutio

hi h esulted i a pea eful ha ge of go e

e t

with Prime Minister Pashinyan leading. The new government engaged in a series of reforms,

102

103

https://eeas.europa.eu/sites/eeas/files/20_deliverables_for_2020.pdf.

The Trans-European Transport Network is a European Commission policy for the implementation and development of a Europe-wide

network of roads, railway lines, inland waterways, maritime shipping routes, ports, airports and rail–road terminals.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

committing itself to strengthening democracy and the rule of law, fighting against corruption,

improving transparency of the justice system and organising free and fair snap parliamentary

elections. The government also adhered to the EU–Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced

Partnership Agreement, which entered into force provisionally on 1 June 2018. Together with the

government, the EU is considering whether to enhance strategic policy engagement in light of the

go e

e t s a itious efo

age da a d hethe to a ele ate a d upg ade ilate al

cooperation.

The parliamentary elections on 9

De e e e e o

P i e Mi iste Pashi a s M Step

alliance. The EU supported the elections with a substantial package of EUR 2.4 million, comprising

technical assistance (IT hardware and live streaming from the polling stations) and democracy and civic

participation actions in the context of holding free and fair elections. The EU will also support reforms of

electoral law in line with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and the Venice

issio s e o

e datio s.

In 2018, the EU was the largest contributor in Armenia, having a substantial portfolio focused on supporting

the reform agenda, the focal regions (Shirak, Lori and Tavush), PSD and infrastructure investments

(blending). Two new actions were approved to support growth in northern regions to include sectors such

as agriculture, tourism and creative industries (EU4Armenia: Regional Development) and civic participation,

including support for the organisation of elections (EU4Citizens: Deepening Democracy). Blended grants

with loans have generated additional investments in energy, water infrastructure and irrigation as well as

the agriculture and transport sectors.

The EU has further actively engaged in high-level and technical discussions on protecting human

rights, supporting the implementation of a human rights budget support programme on improving

the electoral system, combating torture and discrimination, promoting gender equality and

p ote ti g hild e s ights.

In September 2018, the EU and the Ministry of Justice together launched a justice policy dialogue with the

aim of supporting the ongoing review of the 2019–2024 Strategy for Judicial and Legal Reforms and Action

Plan and comprehensive reforms in this area. As of December 2018, discussions are ongoing about EU

support for more comprehensive reforms through further assessment and functional review of the justice

system.

Rega di g se to efo pe fo a e o t a ts, i

the Suppo t fo the i ple e tatio of the

ENP Action Plan and preparations for the futu

e AA p og a

e as o pleted. As of De e e

2018, there are four ongoing programmes with a total multi-annual value of EUR 62 million:



Hu a

ights p ote tio suppo t ,

efo

o e effi ie t a d espo si e pu li ad i ist atio ,

Pu li fi a e poli

Bette se i e deli e

Bette

th ough a

ualifi atio s fo

ette jo s VET .

The government expressed interest in future programmes supporting reforms in the areas of justice,

education and law enforcement.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Azerbaijan

For Azerbaijan, negotiations on a new agreement continued throughout 2018. Partnership Priorities,

a strategic document outlining the basis for cooperation and the Single Support Framework for EU

support to Azerbaijan in 2018–2020 were adopted. In this context, the EU continued support in

three main areas:

economic diversification, human capital

and

regional development.

In the area of

human capital, the EU approved a new programme on Education for Employment, which aims to

support the creation of employment opportunities, especially within SMEs, by strengthening labour-

market-oriented education and training systems.

The EU also o ti ued to suppo t the go e

e t s efo

age da i a eas su h as e e g

management, environmental policy, the probation system, cybersecurity and e-government,

including through active use of the TAIEX instrument. In collaboration with the Council of Europe,

the EU supported justice reform, application of the European Convention on Human Rights and the

fight against corruption and money laundering.

Twinning has

e ai ed a su essful tool i suppo ti g the go e

e t s effo ts to ode ise its

administration and to start aligning with European standards and practices in selected sectors, such

as environment, the civil service, higher education and the pension system. The findings of the EU–

Azerbaijan Business Climate Survey 2018 are helpful in guiding cooperation between the two sides in

trade and related areas.

Belarus

Since the EU lifted most of the restrictive measures against Belarus, and the February 2016 Council

conclusions recognised an opportunity for EU–Belarus relations to develop more positively, the EU

has stepped up its financial assistance to the country, supporting four broad measures to help

de elop the ou t s e o o

i li e ith the joi tl ag eed

Deli e a les fo

. This ai s

to:



support

business and economic development

by helping to simplify business procedures

and attract investment and trade, and support for structural reforms in the state-owned

enterprise sector;

promote

good governance

to foster an enabling, resilient and democratic environment and

enhance capacities in quality reporting of non-state media;

improve

connectivity

to enhance the efficiency of energy and other resources at central and

local levels in Brest and Grodno;

increase

mobility

and expand

people-to-people contacts,

to give professionals more

opportunity to establish contacts with their peers in EU Member States.



In 2018, negotiations on the EU–Belarus Partnership Priorities, a strategic document outlining the

basis for cooperation and the first document of its kind between the EU and Belarus, continued.

Belarus has been eligible since 2016 to access EIB lending and a facilitated EBRD approach. The first

EIB loans were signed on 20 November (EUR 84 million), co-financed by the EBRD, for the upgrade of

the wastewater treatment facility in the capital, Minsk. The EIB will also finance investment projects

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

and the working capital needs of private companies, in particular SMEs (EUR 75 million). Under the

Eastern Europe Energy Efficiency and Environment Partnership (E5P)

–

a multi-contributor trust fund

managed by the EBRD

–

a contribution agreement has been signed for EUR 5.2 million, and the first

project will be construction of a new landfill site in Pukhovichi.

Georgia

The EU and Georgia have consolidated their relations in 2018. A high-level meeting among members

of the European Commission and the Georgian government took place in Brussels on 21 November

. I li e ith the Asso iatio Age da a d the

Deli e a les fo

, p io it a tio s fo

future cooperation have been agreed.

The Single Support Framework 2017–2020, indicating priorities for EU financial support, contributes

to the implementation of the Association Agreement and key structural and institutional reforms.

Geo gia s fi e-point

reform programme demonstrates its ambition to strengthen relations with the

EU.

Overall, the implementation of commitments stemming from the Association Agreement, including

its DCFTA, has continued within agreed timelines. The EU is supporting Georgia to reap the full

benefits of economic integration through the implementation of the DCFTA. As of December 2018,

562 businesses had received financial support through loans (for a total investment value of EUR 105

million), supporting over 21 000 new jobs and creating over 7 600 new jobs. In 2018, in their first

year of operation, the DCFTA Information Centres in four regions reached out to 1 500 SMEs.

Thanks to progressive alignment of technical regulations to EU standards, Georgia continues to

strengthen its participation in international value chains. Preliminary data for 2018 confirm the

importance of the EU as a trade partner for Georgia

–

in 2017 it accounted for 24 % of overall trade.

The opening of the EU market to new animal-origin products from Georgia was an important

milestone. Nevertheless, additional efforts are needed to stimulate exports and improve the trade

balance between the EU and Georgia.

Georgia has made progress in reforming the justice sector, with considerable EU support. Access to

justi e is fa ilitated th ough the go e

e t s Legal Aid Se i e, hi h p o ides se i es to o e

than 45 000 people annually, both in the capital and via 19 offices around the country. However,

important challenges remain to consolidate the progress achieved and safeguard the rule of law.

Reforms to the judiciary are expected to continue, with special attention to transparency and

accountability in the process of appointing judges.

Between 28 March 2017 (when the visa-free regime came into force) and 1 September 2018, around

300 000 Georgian citizens with a biometric passport enjoyed short-term visa-free travel to the

Schengen area. The country has continued implementing overall visa benchmarks and, in particular,

taking measures to tackle irregular migration. Nevertheless, there was still an increase of unfounded

asylum requests in a number of EU Member States.

The first European School outside the EU was opened in Tbilisi in September 2018 as a clear

e og itio of Geo gia s isio a d st o g o

it e t to edu atio efo . EU suppo t i this a ea

focuses on establishing closer links between the education system and the labour market, notably

through increased mobility for students, teachers, researchers, academic staff and young people.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The programmes approved under the 2018 bilateral allocation (EUR 134 million, including a EUR 40

million top-up

f o the U

ella p og a

e ill suppo t the i ple e tatio

of the Association

Ag ee e t, i ludi g Geo gia s i eased pa ti ipatio i E as us+ as ell as a tio s o st ategi

communication. A PFM programme will reinforce economic governance and democratic accountability

in Georgia, while a holistic programme on security, accountability and combating crime will strengthen

good governance, the rule of law and citizen security. Blending operations will support energy

efficiency in public buildings as well as projects on solid waste, water supply in the Adjara region and

lending of local currency.

In 2018 there were six ongoing budget support programmes (EUR 302 million, including the technical

assistance component) on justice, DCFTA and SMEs, PAR, European Neighbourhood Programme for

Agriculture and Rural Development (phases II and III) and skills development and matching for labour

market needs.

Moldova

The invalidation of the mayoral elections in Chisinau in June 2018

–

won by opposition leader

Năstase –

was regarded as non-transparent by the EU and other international actors. The adoption

of a fiscal reform package that led a capital amnesty component raised concerns at the IMF and

among other international partners about money laundering. The package was amended in

November 2018 in line with IMF recommendations, but some shortcomings remain. As of December

2018, those responsible for the 2014 major bank fraud have not yet been brought to justice,

preventing any significant progress in the recovery of assets. Reform of the justice sector has not

advanced significantly, and the use of pre-trial detention and non-transparent judicial proceedings

remain common. The media landscape remains characterised by the concentration of media

ownership and monopolisation of the advertising market.

In light of these developments, the EU has decided to substantially recalibrate and reduce its

financial assistance, focusing on and redirecting its support to projects that have a direct impact on

Moldovan citizens.

The annual action programme for 2018 focused on:



supporting inclusive economic empowerment of focal regions Ungheni and Cahul;

contributing to confidence-building measures between the two banks of the Nistru River;

strengthening the rule of law and anti-corruption mechanisms;

supporting implementation of the Association Agreement in Moldova through EU horizontal

p og a

es e.g. E as us+ a d Ho izo

a d a dedi ated p og a

e o ge de .

On the economic and financial side, Moldova has continued to make some progress in the

implementation of reforms in line with the Association Agreement/DCFTA (AA/DCFTA). Monetary

and fiscal policies have been consolidated, and some structural reforms are being implemented,

notably in the banking sector. However, challenges in the domain of rule of law continue to affect

the overall business and investment climate.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

The EU o ti ued to o solidate its positio as Moldo a s ai t adi g pa t e , a ou ti g fo

of its total trade (68 % of total exports and 49 % of total imports). The agricultural sector has

benefited the most from the DCFTA since its entry into force, with a 44 % growth in exports.

EU assistance has also helped to achieve tangible improvements in the lives of citizens. Several

projects completed in 2018 contributed to energy efficiency in public buildings including schools and

kindergartens (biomass project), improved road infrastructure (building of the Ungheni bypass) and

outh a d edu atio al e ha ges E as us+ . I De e e

, the Pala a o de

ossi g

point, operated jointly by customs and border guards from Moldova and Ukraine, began operation

following EU investment. The EU has supported settlement of the Transnistrian conflict,

strengthening the stability of a country directly bordering the EU. In addition, EU-supported

confidence-building measures have successfully increased dialogue between Chisinau and Tiraspol

through joint initiatives involving local authorities, CSOs and other stakeholders from both sides.

More than 71 000 people on both sides of the Dniester River benefit directly from the supported

social infrastructure projects (health and community centres, water treatment plants, etc.).

Regarding budget support for Moldova in 2018, seven programmes (total multi-annual value

EUR 257 million) were in place on energy, visa liberalisation, VET, trade (DCFTA), public finance

policy reforms, rural development and police reform in addition to Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA)

(total value EUR 100 million). Due to democratic backsliding, as of December 2018 all payments

under the MFA and EU budget support programmes have been put on hold.

Ukraine

The overall environment for the implementation of EU assistance to Ukraine remained favourable in

2018, even though reform progress slowed down in some areas. Progress was also observed in the

area of government-led contributor coordination with the first National Donor Coordination Forum,

chaired by Prime Minister Groysman, which took place in December 2018.

Support for the implementation of the AA/DCFTA continued to be high on the political dialogue

agenda in 2018. The EU continued to implement a comprehensive programme of financial and

te h i al assista e i suppo t of Uk ai e s a itious efo

age da ith the AA/DCFTA as the

main guiding framework.

Territorial reorganisation and decentralisation of competencies continues to be one of the most

su essful efo s i Uk ai e. The U-LEAD

with Europe: Ukraine local empowerment, accountability

a d de elop e t p og a

e helps to esta lish ultile el go e a e that is t a spa e t,

accountable and responsive to the needs of the population. The programme is a joint effort of the

EU, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Poland and Sweden (total budget EUR

illio . U-LEAD

with

Eu ope o e s t o ai o po e ts: apa it uildi g at all le els a d esta lish e t of up to

new administrative service centres in newly amalgamated municipalities (hromadas). There is

particularly close coordination with other international contributors.

The EU Anti-Corruption Initiative consolidated its support for the newly created specialised anti-

o uptio odies a d, ota l , as i st u e tal i Uk ai e s adoptio of a la esta lishi g a e

High Anti-Corruption Court, including the recruitment of judges.

Reform of the judiciary continued in 2018 with an intensive accompanying policy dialogue focusing

on the establishment of the new Supreme Court. Together with other international partners, the EU

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

provided advice and support for the selection of new judges. With regard to rule of law, the new

PRAVO p og a

e has suppo ted esta lish e t of a e

unit to fight organised crime, among

other things, and continues to support the Ministry of Justice on improving strategic planning and

enforcing reforms.

The EU continues to sustain an intensive policy dialogue with the government on PAR at various

levels.

Follo i g a OECD SIGMA aseli e easu e e t of Uk ai e s pu li ad i ist atio , a

revised PAR Strategy and Action Plan until 2021 was adopted in December 2018. A formal high-level

policy dialogue took place in April to assess progress on implementation of the PAR strategy and

jointly define key challenges for 2018.

Considering that PFM is a priority area for EU–Ukraine relations, a EUR 50 million financing

agreement on PFM was signed in 2018 to:



support effective and sustainable economic management;

boost trade and help create an attractive business climate;

improve delivery of public services;

ensure efficient use of partner contributions;

help attain development goals.

As part of its continuing efforts to mitigate the effects of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, the EU

launched the Special Measure for the East (EUR 50 million). This aims to reinforce social and

economic resilience in the government-controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk through a variety of

interventions, including the following:



extended support for local governance,

economic development,

social cohesion and community security,

healthcare reform,

support for disrupted university courses and reforms in vocational education,

access to finance for SMEs,

support for agricultural development.

E e g effi ie

is o e of the Uk ai ia go e

e t s top p io ities. I eased e e g sa i gs ill

promote energy independency and reduce the burden of increasing prices both on the state budget

and for households. In 2018, the EU started impleme

ti g the fi st phase of the E e g Effi ie

support programme for Ukraine (EE4U, EUR 50 million), designed to support the Energy Efficiency

Fund in making investments for individual households or groups of households (homeowner

associations).

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

On the Ukrainian side, the Energy Efficiency Fund was finally established during the summer. In

November 2018, a Commission decision was adopted to finance the second phase of the EE4U

(EUR 54 million).

Education, including VET, is another top priority for the Uk

ai ia go e

e t. The go e

e ts

ownership of initiating cooperation in this sector offered an excellent opportunity to have a parallel

and significant impact also on the education and labour sector and on overall economic

development.

, the Better

skills for modern Ukraine

– EU Skills p og a

e as adopted, helpi g to

modernise the VET system and make skills development demand-driven and responsive to labour

market needs. This intervention also complements other ongoing EU-supported reforms, such as

PSD, decentralisation and PAR.

Regarding budget support, there were three ongoing programmes (total multi-annual value EUR 185

million) during 2018 to support PAR, regional policy and energy strategy.

Regional cooperation

The year 2018 was characterised,

a o g othe thi gs, i ple e tatio of the

Deli e a les fo

. This de o st ated the o ete isio a d o

it e t all pa t e s to i p o e the li es of

all citizens in line with the four key priority areas of

economic development, connectivity, good

governance

and

people-to-people contact.

Concerning market opportunities and

economic development,

more than 40 regional and bilateral

p og a

es u de the EU Busi ess i itiati e o ti ued as the ke olle ti e tool to deli e

concrete support for development of SMEs, complementing national reform plans. In the context of

the DCFTAs established between the EU and Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, the EU has put in place

the DCFTA Facility for SMEs in collaboration with the EBRD, EIB and KfW. The facility will receive

approximately EUR 200 million in grants from the EU budget to unlock at least EUR 2 billion of new

SME investments in Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, to be financed largely by new loans supported

by the facility. Recent developments include the launch of the Local Currency Partnership Initiative

(European Fund for Southeast Europe), the launch of EIB Local Currency Phase 2 and the approval of

EIB DCFTA Guarantee Facility Phase 2. These programmes aim to improve access to local currency

finance for SMEs in Eastern Partnership countries.

In the area of

connectivity,

to develop the digital economy, the Eastern Partnership countries have

affirmed their commitment to reduce roaming tariffs within a set date. To this end, they have

adopted a joint roadmap towards the signature of a regional roaming agreement among the Eastern

Partners by 2020. In addition, support for policy work in six priority topics (electronic

communications and infrastructure, trust and security, eTrade, digital skills, ICT innovation and start-

up e os ste s a d eHealth is st ea li ed th ough the EU Digital i itiati e a d the elated

technical assistance programmes. Finally, through the EU blending facility, the NIP, grant funding will

leverage loans from partner international financial institutions for investments in broadband. The

EIP also provides EUR 1.5 billion of financial guarantees to attract private sector investments in a

number of areas, including Digital for Development. A first portfolio of digital projects will focus on

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de-

iski g i est e ts i last ile i f ast u tu e

(

104

), digital services infrastructure and innovative

instruments to support the scaling-up of digital start-ups.

Continuing in the area of connectivity, regarding energy efficiency, in 2018 regional cooperation

focused on the four deliverable priorities. Milestones included implementing new regional

programmes to promote evidence-based policymaking and efficient water resource management, as

well as adopting extension of the TEN-T into the Neighbourhood East region. The Energy Efficiency

Financial Institutions Group established a multi-contributor Energy Efficiency Fund in Ukraine and

the first-ever large-scale energy efficiency programme for public buildings in Georgia. The year 2018

was also

a su ess fo the EU s la gest li ate a d e e g i itiati e i the Easte Pa t e ship ith

the number of Covenant of Mayors signatories growing to more than 390 since 2014, the highest

number among all NEAR regions.

In the area of

good governance,

to strengthen the rule of law, anti-corruption mechanisms and

justice sector reform for the Eastern Partnership countries, the EU continued its long-standing

cooperation with the Council of Europe under the Programmatic Cooperation Framework. The

programme was re

a ed Pa t e ship fo good go e a e i

to ette efle t the p io ities

of the Eastern Partnership. Protecting and promoting human rights, ensuring justice, combating

threats to the rule of law, addressing the challenges of the information society and promoting

democratic governance are all at the core of the joint EU–Council of Europe efforts in the Eastern

Partnership countries

–

efforts that are already showing some concrete results on the ground. For

example, investment in legal reform on conflicts of interest and asset declarations has resulted in

the establishment of e-Asset declaration systems for high-level officials in Armenia, Georgia,

Moldova and Ukraine. When the data submitted by relevant institutions are effectively verified and

failure to submit is sanctioned, these new systems become powerful tools to detect and prevent

conflicts of interest. They can also help to show close links between politics and business. Moreover,

u de the Easte Pa t e ship poli e oope atio p og a

e , further

support was provided to

ei fo e Easte Pa t e ship ou t ies apa ilities i te s of o ati g se ious a d o ga ised

crime as well as to foster cooperation on police issues related to cross-border crime.

In the areas of

mobility

and

people-to-people contacts,

increased emphasis has been put on youth

partnerships, education and employment opportunities. This was highlighted by the November 2017

Easte Pa t e ship Su

it, hi h e do sed as o e of the

Deli e a les fo

a e

Youth

and Education Package (EUR 340 million) with the aim of creating the necessary conditions for young

people to study, work and participate fully in society and fulfil their potential. One core element of

the Pa kage is the EU Youth

programme (total EU funding EUR 30 million 2016–2022), which

strives to improve youth employment prospects

–

notably for disadvantaged young people

–

fostering their entrepreneurial potential and helping them develop indispensable skills for the labour

market. The programme encompasses 84 small capacity-building projects (Civil Society Fellowships

and Partnerships for Entrepreneurship) and 6 large projects addressing challenges for youth

entrepreneurship and disadvantaged young people, already benefiting more than 6 000 young

people.

The se o d phase of EU Youth as adopted i De e e

. This i ites e p oposals

on social entrepreneurship, new capacity-building projects and activities supporting establishment

of the Youth Engagement Roadmaps. The European School in Tbilisi has been operational since

104

Last

ile tele o

u i atio s te h olog

a ies sig als the sho t dista e f o

the et o k to a d f o

ho es o

usi esses.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

September 2018, with 30 diploma students from all partner countries. A scholarship scheme

covering tuition and boarding costs is in place for approximately 30–35 new students per year for

2018–2021. The pre-feasibility studies for the second phase are underway. Education and youth

oope atio ha e ee fu the suppo ted

E as us+ ith o e

500 bilateral projects among EU

and Eastern Partnership higher education institutions, 25 000 individuals participating in academic

exchanges, 30 000 young people involved in youth exchanges, mobility and volunteering and 1 700

schools involved in eTwinning Plus. The participation of countries in Creative Europe (for Armenia,

Geo gia, Moldo a a d Uk ai e , Eu ope s Co petiti e ess of E te p ises

and Small and Medium-

sized E te p ises a d Ho izo

, i ludi g the Ma ie Skłodo ska-Curie

actions, opens new

cooperation opportunities for administrations, businesses, cultural and audiovisual operators,

researchers and other professionals. Additionally, the network of 500 Young European Ambassadors

from EU Member States and the 6 partner countries contributed to raising the profile of the EU in

the region.

CBC overview: Neighbourhood East and South

CBC is an important element of EU policy towards its eastern and southern neighbours, adding

cohesion and territorial cooperation to EU relations. The year 2018 marked the initial

implementation of the package of 15 ENI CBC programmes (13 of which are in the east) for the

period 2014–2020 (totalling around EUR 1 billion). By the end of the year, 17 of the 18 financing

agreements signed with participating partner countries in the European Neighbourhood East

entered into force. In addition, the designation of managing authorities located in the respective

participating Member States was completed for nine programmes. The projects to be implemented

u de these p og a

es ai at suppo ti g sustai a le e o o i de elop e t alo g the EU s

external borders, thus reducing differences in living standards and addressing common challenges

across these borders. For each of these programmes, the participating countries have selected up to

four thematic objectives, such as SME development, culture and environment and climate change. In

2018, all programmes launched their first and even second and third calls for proposals for regular

projects, while the EU approved 54 direct-award large infrastructure projects.

3.5.1.3 Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people affected

by conflicts and disasters

After more than four years of conflict, the humanitarian situation in eastern

Ukraine

has

deteriorated as the protracted nature of the conflict has eroded the standard of living of those most

affected. The EU is one of the largest humanitarian contributors

–

in 2018, it contributed EUR 24

million. This has benefited 500 000 people living along both sides of the line of contact and in the

non-government-controlled areas. The EU has been delivering much-needed food and non-food

items, winterisation assistance, shelter repairs and water, sanitation and hygiene assistance, medical

assistance, protection and livelihood support. Furthermore, the EU has been at the forefront of

ad o a effo ts to aise the isi ilit of this fo gotte

isis o Eu ope s doo step, p o oti g

humanitarian principles and international humanitarian law and striving to enhance the situation of

IDPs. While supporting the Humanitarian–Development Nexus approach, relevant Commission

services have released a Joint Humanitarian–Development Framework for Ukraine 2017–2020.

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3.5.1.4. Crisis response and preparedness

In 2018, IcSP involvement in the crisis in

Ukraine

continued. New interventions focused on further

supporting the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM), providing psychosocial assistance to

veterans and facilitating their reintegration in society as well as building capacity for protection of

civilians in eastern Ukraine. In addition, the IcSP is supporting civic engagement of adolescents and

young people in the conflict-affected areas, and it launched an innovative action on cybersecurity in

connection with the elections in Ukraine, to be implemented in 2019.

The IcSP has been supporting the OSCE SMM since 2014 and, as of December 2018, has supported

mission staff costs, the monitors themselves and purchase of equipment such as unmanned aerial

vehicles, infrared cameras, etc. In addition, through a special agreement with the European Satellite

Centre, the mission receives satellite imagery, which has proven to be indispensable in monitoring

difficult terrain. Renewed IcSP support for the SMM will help it reduce tensions, foster peace,

stability and security, and ensure respect for OSCE principles and commitments.

The IcSP also started to support grass-roots CSOs to increase resilience to conflict and strengthen

social cohesion. Working with local organisations and media, this action is bringing people together

a oss a ious di ides to i p o e pe eptio s of the othe , e po e i g o

u ities to add ess

their shared issues. A new programme also helps the authorities develop appropriate policy

responses targeting ex-combatants. Psychosocial assistance centres established under a previous

IcSP action are providing professional support to the target group and their families, piloting

multidisciplinary approaches which can then be taken up by state services. At the same time, ex-

combatants will be able to avail themselves of livelihood opportunities to aid their reintegration as

civilians. Finally, awareness campaigns and incentive schemes will encourage ex-combatants to

voluntarily surrender any illegally held weapons, which represent a growing threat to Ukrainian

society.

At the end of 2018, the IcSP launched an innovative action on cybersecurity in relation to the

upcoming elections in Ukraine. This action, which will run in 2019, aims to strengthen the capacity of

a number of crucial participants in the electoral process and provide cyber hygiene training and

technical cybersecurity exercises to decision makers and IT specialists. In addition, the action will

foster the exchange of best practices in the area by supporting study visits and peer exchange

between electoral administrators and cyber experts in Ukraine and selected EU Member States.

In addition, implementation of a pilot action to reduce harm to civilians began in 2018, helping the

Ukrainian government initiate the necessary reforms in policy and practice. With new doctrines,

training and organisational structures to protect civilians and investigate, track and analyse harm to

civilians, the aim is to help the Ukrainian government include civilian protection at every stage of

operations, including planning, execution, assessment and strategic and tactical revision.

The IcSP continues to be a major supporter of confidence-building and conflict-prevention actions in

the

south Caucasus.

The Confidence Building Early Response Mechanism (Coberm) has been a

particularly successful initiative, and in

Georgia

it has developed into an EU brand standing for

neutrality, transparency and quality. Similar to IcSP engagement in Georgia, the other protracted

conflict in the region in which the IcSP is engaged is

Nagorno-Karabakh,

he e the Eu opea

partnership for the peaceful settlement of the conflict over Nagorno-Ka

a akh p og a

e is

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

supporting media initiatives, conflict-affected groups and facilitation of a negotiated peaceful

settlement.

3.5.1.5. Working better together, contributor effectiveness and contributor coordination

Most countries in the European Neighbourhood East have been engaged in joint programming in

2018, the pace and scope of which is determined by the country context.

Armenia,

the joint analysis established and endorsed in 2016 by EU Member States has been

extended, updated and endorsed in 2018 by international organisations present in the country. The

extended joint analysis focuses on 23 sectors, which are largely in line with the priority sectors

identified in the governmental Armenian Development Strategy. The joint analysis is positively

perceived by EU Member States and the Armenian government, and it was used as a basis for

preparing multi-annual programming of EU assistance (Single Support Framework 2017–2020). It

was used throughout 2018 for EU coordination and, more generally, for the reinforcement of

contributor coordination.

Azerbaijan,

the EU suppo ted the go e

e t s a ti e ole i o t i utor

coordination in the

sectors of agriculture and education. The EU made efforts to align its cooperation with the national

reform agenda (Economic Reforms Roadmap adopted in December 2016). EU+ joint programming in

Azerbaijan has focused on VET, in which a number of partners, including EU Member States and

other countries such as Norway and Switzerland, are active. In 2018, an EU+ joint analysis of the VET

sector was conducted.

Belarus,

regular exchanges on policy analysis and coordination continued with EU Member States

and other partners, informed by the joint analysis conducted in 2016. This includes an annual

contributor coordination meeting that took place in Brussels in April 2018.

Georgia,

the joint programming process

–

and, notably, the joint European analysis finalised in

April 2017

–

guided and informed the choice of priority areas for the Single Support Framework

(2017–2020). This established the strategic framework, key results and indicative financial

allocations for EU bilateral cooperation with Georgia until 2020. The joint analysis continued to form

the basis for cooperation in 2018, facilitating closer synergies and avoiding duplication of aid efforts.

For

Moldova,

the joint programming process led to the finalisation of a Joint Programming

Document in November 2017. This strategy, involving EU institutions, EU Member States and

Switzerland, was presented on 28 February 2018 to the Moldovan government. The joint

programming process has enhanced the exchange of data among European partners and improved

the coherence of European policy dialogue in the country.

Ukraine,

the government has been taking an increasingly active role in contributor coordination.

This is driven by a number of factors, including increased capacity of line ministries to engage in

strategic planning and contributor coordination (as one of the results of the ongoing PAR), the prime

i iste s de isio to esta lish a high-le el pa t e ship fo de elop e t fo u a d the

go e

e t s adoptio of ediu

-term budgeting. At the sectoral level, the adoption of a number

of laws, strategies and action plans at various times since July 2017 significantly enabled strategic

dialogue with partners in different areas (e.g. agriculture, energy, SME development, transport, e-

governance, environment, PFM, education, health, law enforcement, gender). A number of other

sectors already have effective contributor coordination mechanisms in place (e.g. decentralisation,

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

e e g effi ie , PAR, fi a ial se to , et . . At the pa t e ship fo de elop e t fo u , the p i e

minister set out his priorities for 2019 and committed to convening several more meetings of the

forum in 2019. This represents a significant step forward in establishing an effective platform for

high-level strategic coordination of external assistance, which had previously been largely absent.

Contributor coordination is also part of discussions under the Eastern Partnership Platforms and

Panels, enabling more strategic and coordinated support for the partner countries. Efforts were

made to improve coordination with international financial institutions as well as the UNDP, including

dedicated regional workshops held throughout 2018.

In 2018, the EU fostered its research and innovation cooperation with Eastern Partnership countries.

Various activities were performed through the Horizon 2020 Policy Support Facility aiming to

improve the framework conditions of EU scientific cooperation with Moldova and Ukraine. The

progress achieved was acknowledged in the respective Association Council statements.

3.5.1.6. Working towards SDGs

Principally guided by the revised ENP and the priorities established at the Eastern Partnership

it i Riga i

, the EU s elatio s ith its easte

eigh ou s a e ell alig ed ith a d

support the implementation of key global policy goals set by the UN 2030 SDGs and the Paris

Agreement on climate change. Commitments made as part of these two documents have served as a

efe e e fo shapi g the

Deli e a les fo

, hi h e e e do sed at

the Eastern

Partnership Summit in November 2017. The thematic coverage of these deliverables corresponds to

the SDGs and their targets. To enable implementation, a policy dialogue and framework for

monitoring progress were put in place. The aim is to mobilise technical expertise and involve senior

officials in a process that would accelerate actions in the next phase of the Eastern Partnership until

2020.

Peer-to-peer instruments, TAIEX and Twinning also actively contributed to support the overall

reform process in line with EU political priorities.

3.5.2. European Neighbourhood South

3.5.2.1. Introduction: ENI priorities and policy developments

The EU continued to design and support initiatives to promote political, societal, economic and

security resilience of the European Neighbourhood South countries throughout 2018. In line with

the 2015 ENP review, new policy and cooperation frameworks were adopted. The EU and

Tunisia

agreed on strategic priorities for 2018–2020, focusing on inclusive and sustainable socioeconomic

development, democracy, good governance and human rights, mobility and migration as well as

security and combating terrorism. Tunisia benefited again from a significant package of financial

assistance in 2018 (EUR 305 million), confirming EU willingness to support key reforms in a critical

period of democratic consolidation. The Single Support Framework 2018–2020 for

Algeria

was

adopted, focusing on economic governance and diversification, local development and participatory

democracy, energy and climate-related actions. The

EU–Morocco

Action Plan implementing

advanced status was extended for one year. The

EU–Jordan

Association Council agreed on a two-

year extension of the Partnership Priorities until the end of 2020. The first drafts of the Partnership

Priorities with

Israel

and

Palestine

have been prepared for discussion with EU Member States in

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

early 2019. The action plans for both Israel and Palestine were prolonged for three years at the end

of 2018.

The EU intensified dialogue with its Neighbourhood partners on migration, both at bilateral and

regional levels, following adoption of the June 2018 European Council conclusions. The EU continued

to mobilise all its tools, including the various trust funds and bilateral and regional programmes, in

order to improve migration and border management in the region, address the root causes of

irregular migration and protect and help those in need in

Egypt, Libya, Morocco

and

Tunisia.

Mitigating the impact of the protracted crisis in

Syria

remained a constant priority throughout 2018.

In April, the EU co-chaired with the UN the Brussels II Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria

a d the Regio , hi h eaffi ed EU suppo t fo the S ia people a d to S ia s eigh ou i g

countries. The conference brought together 86 delegations including 57 states, 10 representatives of

regional organisations and international financial institutions and 19 UN agencies. More than 250

NGOs, including from Syria, were closely associated with the conference. The international

community confirmed EUR 3.9 billion in funding to support humanitarian, resilience and

development activities in 2018 and EUR 3.2 billion from 2019 to 2020 in response to the Syrian crisis.

This included pledges to the Syria Humanitarian Response Plan, the 3RP and the International

Committee of the Red Cross Syria Crisis appeals. Since then, the EU has been tracking the conference

pledges and has updated the international community and its partners on different occasions. A

record level of 140 % (USD 6 billion) of the amount pledged at Brussels II materialised into concrete

commitments on the ground. As part of the UN General Assembly in September 2018, the EU hosted

a ministerial meeting on the Syria crisis. HR/VP Mogherini and Commissioner Stylianides chaired the

meeting and attracted a high level of participation and engagement, especially by countries from the

region, the main contributors and EU Member States. With more than EUR 10.8 billion mobilised in

humanitarian and resilience assistance, the EU, collectively with EU Member States, remains the

main contributor for Syrians and Syrian refugee-hosting communities, notably in Jordan and

Lebanon.

The EU continued to respond actively to ongoing crises and conflicts in the region, notably through

its support of UN-led peace processes in Syria, to the process of stabilisation in Iraq and to the

search for a two-state solution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.

The cluster approach

–

putting on a single agenda all the priority topics that the EU discusses

bilaterally with partners

–

was adopted to examine security in a number of European

Neighbourhood South countries, such as Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Tunisia.

The EU continued its firm support for resolving the Israeli–Palestinian conflict with a two-state

solution. It appointed Ms Terstal as new EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace

Process in September. In March the EU also organised a first international contributors conference

for the construction of a Central Desalination Plant in Gaza.

Through the EIP and the EFSD, which includes an innovative guarantee fund to attract additional

private investment by reducing risk, the EU worked actively to partner with international financial

institutions and the private sector. On 18 December, the EU announced the signing of the first such

guarantee, the Nasira Risk-Sharing Facility, which will use EUR 75 million of EU funds to leverage up

to EUR 750 million of investments for entrepreneurs in the European Neighbourhood South and

Africa. This is expected to create 800 000 jobs. The EU continued to push for increased contributor

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

coordination and improved and coordinated policy dialogue to boost key economic reforms in

partner countries and enhance the impact of aid. In this context, the EU led a first joint high-level

mission with leading international financial institutions in Tunisia in July.

3.5.2.2. Implementation

Bilateral cooperation, including budget support

Algeria

In Algeria, in line with the objective of the new Single Support Framework 2018–2020 adopted in

May 2018, the EU devoted its efforts to diversification of the economy, still heavily dependent on

h d o a o esou es as of De e e

. The

Suppo t di e sifi atio of the e o o

annual action programme (EUR 45 millio

ai s to suppo t Alge ia s t a sitio to a g ee a d

circular economy and to reinforce the ongoing capacity-building programme for local development

a to s CapDel . At the e d of

, the EU delegatio s po tfolio of o goi g p oje ts a ou ted to

EUR 247 million, while the portfolio of ongoing EU projects in the three Maghreb countries (Algeria,

Morocco and Tunisia) amounted to EUR 2.4 billion.

Egypt

In Egypt, a total amount of EUR 112 million was committed in 2018 to provide basic services to the

most vulnerable, promote the sustainable management of water and energy resources and support

the private sector and civil society. Part of this support will leverage additional financing from

European financial institutions (under the EIP), in particular for wastewater, sanitation and energy

efficiency projects. The EU contribution of EUR 460.2 million in blending grants since 2008 has, as of

December 2018, succeeded in leveraging approximately EUR 8.85 billion in loans. Under the NIP in

2018, a EUR 45.8 million programme for the depollution of the Kitchener Drain and the

Mediterranean Sea was signed, a EUR 20 million wastewater treatment project for Alexandria West

was approved and a EUR 15 million agreement for the promotion of MSMEs across the country was

signed.

As of December 2018, the socioeconomic situation remains fragile, and so the EU remains

committed to mitigating the negative effects of economic reforms on vulnerable populations.

Indeed, the EU continued a dialogue with Egyptian partners responsible for vulnerable groups (the

National Council for Childhood/Motherhood and the National Council on Disability Affairs) and

education (the Ministry of Education) to promote social justice. In addition, the EU supported

vocational training through the TVET II programme, focusing on improving the structure and

performance of the national system. In January 2018, the EU signed a EUR 27 million financing

agreement to support the National Population Council in implementing its National Population

Strategy 2015–2030, addressing the important challenges that the rapidly increasing population

presents for sustainable development within the country.

Israel

Being an OECD member country, Israel received project-based technical assistance available to

public bodies, mainly in the form of long-term Twinning programmes and short-term interventions

ia TAIEX, hi h allo s the e ha ge of EU pu li odies est p a ti es a d

acquis communautaire.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

In 2018, support via the Twinning instrument amounted to EUR 1.8 million and targeted the

education and telecommunication sectors.

Covering both Palestine and Israel, the EU Peacebuilding Initiative aims to support and promote the

conditions for a sustainable resolution of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict through positive civil society

projects. The delegations in Israel and Palestine manage the programme together.

Jordan

I Jo da , the EU suppo ted the go e

e t s effo ts to u lo k the g o th pote tial of the ou t

and create jobs while, at the same time, protecting the most vulnerable. In line with the objectives

of the Investment Conference to be held in London in February 2019, a significant amount of the

bilateral envelope (EUR 89 million) was devoted to innovation-related and PSD programmes. In

addition, the EU adopted a new prog

e to suppo t the ou t s i teg ated o de

management. The EU also supported the efforts of the Jordanian administration for modernisation

and accountability and delivered actions supporting the establishment of an e-voting system in

parliament, reinforcing the Independent Electoral Commission and accompanying the adoption of a

new Public Finance Management Reform Strategy 2018–2021. A new budget support programme

–

aiming to establish a legal aid system and apply sanctions other than detention

–

was also launched

to help the Ministry of Justice advance its reform process. Additional actions were implemented to

improve the legal and institutional framework of the National Employment–Technical and Vocational

Education and Training (E–TVET) sector and to reinforce the capacities of both the TVET providers

and the quality of assurance bodies.

Lebanon

At the Co fé e e é o o i ue pou le dé eloppe e t, pa les éfo es et a e les e t ep ises

(CEDRE) in Paris in April 2018, the EU supported implementatio

of Le a o s Visio fo

Sta ilisatio , G o th a d E plo e t .

The EU pledged to support the Capital Investment Plan

through the provision of technical assistance and blending. In that respect, EUR 25 million was

mobilised in 2018 to support growth and job creation as well as to promote innovation and

e t ep e eu ship i suppo t of Le a o s t a sitio to lea e e g use. Gi e the e i o e tal

challenges facing the country, the EU delegation organised several environment-related events in

2018 to attract Lebanese green entrepreneurs and promote the preservation of clean air, land and

marine biodiversity. At the Rome II Conference in March 2018, the EU announced a EUR 50 million

package to further support the Lebanese security sector, underscoring its continued commitment to

security and stability. Delivering on the pledge, the EU continued to support overall stabilisation of

the country by launching a EUR 18 million programme promoting the rule of law, enhancing security

and countering terrorism. The EU also adopted a new programme to improve airport security.

Libya

The security situation remains a challenging factor for implementation of the cooperation

programmes in Libya. As of December 2018, operations continue to be remotely managed from

Tunis, where the delegation is temporarily based. Throughout 2018, the EU focused its efforts on

assisti g the ou t s t a sitio to a ds a sta le, fu tio i g state that is a ou ta le to its

citizens, in line with UN mediation efforts. The 2018 Special Measure in favour of Libya included

actions towards the economy, governance and CSOs (EUR 17 million). The EU also supported the

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

improvement of the Libyan business environment and economic diversification, with a special focus

o ou g people a d o e s e plo e t.

Morocco

Although Morocco has made good progress in terms of economic development since 2015 with an

annual average growth in GDP of 4 %, considerable disparities in the redistribution of the benefits of

that growth at territorial level and in society remain, particularly with regard to job creation for

young people. In this context, the EU provided a comprehensive package of EUR 182 million to

encourage more inclusive socioeconomic development. It included support for:



the decentralisation process, in order to accelerate the development of rural or mountain

areas;

the integration of youth into society, especially those with the least opportunities;

public administration through modern PFM tools and capacity building of personnel;

development of the private sector, green investment and MSME in order to create new

opportunities for job creation and sustainable development.



Morocco benefited from budget support amounting to EUR 160 million in 2018.

Palestine

Given the lack of political horizons for the peace process and the stalling of reconciliation among

Palestinian factions, the EU reviewed its engagement in the MEPP in order to increase the efficiency

and effectiveness of its support. On financial cooperation issues, the review concluded that:



the EU should focus more on building up the capacities and functions of a future state;

it should increase its leverage on reforms with an incentive-based approach to the

Experimental Programme of Automated Management and Security (Programme

d E pé i e tatio d u e Gestion

Automatisée et Sécurisée, Pegase) mechanism;

over time, it should shift its emphasis away from subsidies towards investment in the

productive economy;

it should ake

programmes.

o e use of t ia gulatio

i ludi g the Is aeli autho ities i

the



These conclusions are being implemented as of December 2018.

EU support for Palestine continued to cover a wide range of areas, including capacity building,

democratic governance and socioeconomic development. In 2018, total contributions approached

EUR 350 million. Support targeted the provision of public services through the Pegase mechanism,

the East Jerusalem health programmes and a programme to produce self-sufficient water and

energy services in which the EU invests in long-term water, energy and sanitation infrastructure

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

across the territory (

105

). A cash transfer programme targeted the most vulnerable families and the

East Je usale p og a

e add essed the o se i g so ioe o o i a d ultu al o ditio s of

Palestinians living in the eastern part of the city. In order to tackle the unprecedented funding issue

of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the

EU responded rapidly, committing EUR 153 million in 2018. The Commission held a strategic

dialogue with UNRWA and, together with hosting countries, initiated important work to identify

ways of tackling the structural deficit and ensuring core services continue to be provided to

Palestinian refugees.

Syria

The EU remains at the forefront of contributors to Syrian refugees and host communities through

the activities of the EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis (EUTF for Syria). The

EUTF for Syria aims at addressing longer-term resilience needs of the more than five million Syrian

refugees in the region as well as supporting their host communities and local administrations. With

contributions and pledges amounting to more than EUR 179 million in 2018, its total budget reached

EUR 1.65 billion. As of December 2018, the EUTF for Syria has reached 1.9 million beneficiaries

through projects ranging from health and education to economic opportunities and water, sanitation

and hygiene. Education and protection-related actions also show good progress, with more than

200 000 children and young people now having access to basic and higher education, psychosocial

support and protection against gender-based violence. In addition, 4 684 local organisations,

institutions and facilities, mainly educational and hospital facilities but also MSMEs, received

support.

Inside Syria, EU assistance was scaled up in the field of protection and area-based approaches,

aiming to protect space for local civil society and for social cohesion. The 2018 Special Measure

(EUR 31 million) aimed at preserving the prospects for an inclusive political transition by supporting

i i pa ti ipatio a d p o oti g people s ights as a e ues fo pea e a d sta ilit . These a tio s

complemented the portfolio of projects funded under the ENI since 2011 in the following sectors:



education,

livelihoods,

human rights,

transitional justice and accountability,

housing,

land and property rights documentation,

support for civil society,

o e s e po e

e t.

105

This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual position of the

Member States on this issue.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Severely impacted by the consequences of the Syria crisis, the EU continued to stand firmly by

Jordan

and

Lebanon

and support their stability and resilience.

Tunisia

Tunisia is one of the major bilateral recipients of EU support in the region with around EUR 300

million in grants per year to support its political and economic transition. As of December 2018,

Tu isia e ai s a ajo e efi ia of the U

ella p og a

e that allo s the i ease of

European financial support to partners working towards democracy and regulating human rights. On

12 July 2018, a high-level mission of European and international financial institutions, led by

issio e Hah , e t to Tu is to eite ate the i te atio al o

u it s suppo t fo Tu isia s

reform efforts.

I li e ith the o

it e ts take i the

Joi t Co

u i atio St e gthe i g EU suppo t to

Tu isia , the p og a

es lau hed i

efle t the a itio of the EU to suppo t the adoptio of

reforms, support Tunisian civil society and accompany the country in its transition to democracy. The

e Jeu esse e a tio p og a

e EUR

60 million) promotes better inclusion of Tunisian youth

(13–30 years old) in political, economic and social terms, particularly those from the most deprived

areas. Other newly adopted programmes aim to:



reinforce the capacity of local administrations to stimulate development and provide better

access to basic local services (EUR 70 million);

contribute to the reinforcement and restructuring of the economic environment, particularly

for start-ups and entrepreneurship (EUR 15 million).



Tunisia benefited from budget support amounting to EUR 65.6 million in 2018.

Migration

The EU continued to play a pivotal role in driving forward policies and programmes aimed at

stemming the influx of irregular migrants to the EU. In that sense, EU contributions to European

Neighbourhood South countries for tackling migration challenges and their root causes was crucial.

In 2018, the EUTF for Africa continued to save lives and tackle the root causes of destabilisation,

forced displacement and irregular migration. Actions focused on the protection and support to those

in need, the fight against trafficking in human beings and smuggling of migrants and the return and

reintegration of migrants to their countries of origin by promoting development and security. The

EUTF for Africa further co

solidated its a hie e e ts

app o i g

e a tio s a d

top-ups

of ongoing actions, which brings the total number of approved actions to 187, for a total of EUR 3.6

billion.

The central Mediterranean route (

106

) remained the main challenge and focus of attention regarding

irregular migration in 2018. Overall, this year saw a fall of 80 % in irregular arrivals to Italy compared

to 2017. However, in 2018, the situation and migratory pressure along the route continued to be at

the centre of attention, in particular because conditions of migrants and refugees in Libya remains a

106

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cause for great concern. Along the western Mediterranean route, there was a substantial increase in

irregular border crossings from Morocco to Spain.

Under the North of Africa window of the EUTF for Africa, the pace of implementation of actions

ensuring stability and addressing root causes of irregular migration and displaced persons in North

of Africa countries continued with new programmes worth EUR 586.2 million approved in 2018.

Through a EUR 144 million package adopted in record time at the end of 2018, the EU stepped up its

efforts to fight the smuggling of migrants and human trafficking across the whole of the western

Medite a ea oute

ei fo i g Mo o o s o de

a agement

capabilities. The programme

was funded by both the EUTF for Africa and budget support under the ENI.

In 2018, Libya was a key priority for the Commission, where the number of migrants was estimated

to be almost 700 000, among whom 57 546 were registered as refugees and asylum seekers by the

UN s High Co

issio e o Refugees. The EU stepped up oope atio

ith i te atio al pa t e s,

including in the framework of the AU–EU–UN Taskforce, to accelerate action in Libya in order to

provide life-saving assistance to those in need, enhance the resilience of host communities in Libyan

municipalities, support border management and fight the vicious economy of smugglers and

traffickers.

Regional cooperation

In 2018, the EU continued to promote regional cooperation in the European Neighbourhood South

through sector policy dialogue with regional organisations such as the UfM, the League of Arab

States and the Council of Europe.

In the UfM context, a Trade Ministerial Meeting was held in March 2018, giving new impetus to the

dialogue on economic integration in the Euro-Mediterranean region. Cooperation was discussed on

specific trade issues, such as sanitary and phytosanitary measures. Ministers highlighted the close

link between promotion of trade and enhancing investment. The meeting contributed to increased

synergies in regional and bilateral cooperation.

The EU continued to support dialogue among energy regulators, energy efficiency and renewable

energies agencies (e.g. the Association of Mediterranean Transmission System Operators; the

Mediterranean Association of National Agencies for Energy Management; the Regional Center for

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency; the Mediterranean Energy Observatory (Observatoire

Médite a ée de l E e gie a d atu al gas suppliers

regarding the integration of energy markets,

the development of renewable energies, the promotion of energy efficiency and the facilitation of

regulatory convergence. Similarly, regional projects in the transport sector provided technical

assistance to the national authorities with the long-term objective of making transport in the region

safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly.

Ongoing environment-related projects focus on developing circular economies, meeting the

objectives of the Barcelona Convention on biodiversity and depolluting the Mediterranean Sea.

Commission services not only help national authorities to implement their domestic sustainable and

consumption plans, but also assist individual companies that have invested in resource-efficient

processes.

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In view of the shrinking space for CSOs across the region, engagement with civil society was

reinforced. The EU launched several region-wide actions on harnessing the efforts of young people

to contribute to peace. These actions also encouraged proactive participation of young people in the

preservation of cultural heritage through skills and capacity development as well as knowledge

transfer. In support of pro-democratic CSOs, movements and individuals, a new programme was

launched with the European Endowment for Democracy. The Civil Society Forum for the European

Neighbourhood South confirmed itself as a credible and inclusive platform for dialogue among CSOs,

EU institutions and regional entities, where regional policy agendas can be shared and debated. This

e Hu fo Dialogue is o ki g to a ds i eased o e ship of the p o ess CSOs.

EU assistance in the European Neighbourhood South continued to enhance economic governance

and create an enabling business environment by fostering responsible investment policies and

regional trade integration, approximating EU policies, regulations and standards. By improving

access to finance, mobilisation of funds and investments for the region made a big difference to

SMEs and innovative entrepreneurship in particular. Moreover, efforts to attract cooperation with

and support from the private sector helped to develop closer synergy with the EIP. The importance

of blending operations through the NIP was reaffirmed as a powerful instrument to leverage

significant additional financial resources for EU objectives and as a tool to increase collaboration

among financing institutions. Finally, the EU continued to fully exploit the potential of economic

development for job creation, particularly for young people, and tackling the economic root causes

of migration.

3.5.2.3. Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Responding to the emergency needs of people

affected by conflicts and disasters

Libya:

The EU launched a Nexus approach in the health sector in conjunction with the WHO and

other partners. There was enhanced coordination between the humanitarian aid instruments (EUR 9

illio a d the EU s o

i st u e ts th ough the de elop e t of a at i to deli eate

responsibilities in line with the inst

u e ts espe ti e a dates.

Algeria (Sahrawi crisis):

The IcSP launched an 18-month project (EUR 800 000) to strengthen youth

resilience and counter potential radicalisation, broadening the range of EU instruments (EUR 9

million of humanitarian aid) responding to this protracted, forgotten crisis. In order to raise

awareness about this crisis and broaden the partner base, the EU organised a second joint mission

with EU Member States.

Tunisia:

A second disaster risk reduction project was successfully launched, and a contribution was

made to the peer review of the Tunisian civil protection system under the EU Civil Protection

Mechanism. An Administrative Arrangement between Commission services and the Tunisian

National Office of Civil Protection was signed. Good progress was made on implementation of the

two Administrative Arrangements with southern Neighbourhood countries (Algeria in 2016 and

Tunisia in 2018). For instance, in April 2018, for the first time, a subregional exercise was

implemented in Algeria by France, with the participation of Algeria, Italy, Poland, Spain and Tunisia

thanks to EU funding. This exercise aimed at improving international cooperation in simulation of a

devastating earthquake.

Neighbourhood South Regional:

The P e e tio , p epa

edness and response to natural and man-

made disasters, Region South, Phase

III PPRD SOUTH

III) programme started in February 2018. It

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

will strengthen prevention, operational assistance and response capacities, promote volunteer

programmes and provide better communication tools to reach out to the population on emergency

procedures.

3.5.2.4. Crisis response and preparedness

As of December 2018, the European Neighbourhood South remains a priority for stabilisation

engagement under the IcSP, with regard to the Iraq, Libya and Syria crises in particular. In 2018, 12

new IcSP exceptional assistance measures were adopted in this context. The IcSP addresses five key

p io ities of the EU s diplo ati age da i the Middle East a d No th Af i a.

North Africa,

IcSP interventions targeted the situation in

Libya

where the re-establishment of a

state presence, the facilitation of community inputs to the national peace process, local mediation

initiatives and mine action are at the core of EU efforts to help stabilise the country. Similarly,

conflict prevention is at the core of an IcSP intervention in

Algeria,

adopted in March 2018, to

support Sahrawi youth by promoting a culture of peace. In

Tunisia,

the IcSP will renew its support to

strengthen intelligence capacities as well as terrorism-related investigations, prosecutions,

adjudications and penitentiary management by relevant Tunisian authorities in line with

international standards.

The

Syria crisis

continued to be at the centre of IcSP crisis management efforts in the Middle East,

both inside Syria and in neighbouring countries, including

Lebanon

and

Jordan.

IcSP support has

covered a wide range of thematic areas, including stabilisation work (demining), delivery of non-

humanitarian assistance to the population in Syria (education) and support for dialogue initiatives

(including the UN-brokered peace talks in Geneva), transitional justice and accountability. In

Lebanon, IcSP interventions were designed to secure Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport against

illicit trafficking and the threat of terrorism and for deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces south

of the Litani River.

Further east, in

Iraq,

IcSP interventions aim to support stabilisation and the reduction of tensions by

helping Iraq draft, among other things, a human-rights-compliant counterterrorism strategy

supporting national reconciliation and assisting with demining in areas of the country recently

libe

ated f o Da esh.

In the

West Bank,

the IcSP was further mobilised to improve human security through mine clearance

and to avert further crisis through ensuring UNRWA service continuity.

Actions on

counterterrorism

and the

prevention of violent extremism

also represent a major

endeavour region-wide. Besides the bilateral actions in Iraq and Tunisia, a regional initiative with

CEPOL provided training to selected security agencies, while local initiatives to prevent radicalisation

were put in place in selected communities in the region.

3.5.2.5. Working better together, contributor effectiveness and contributor coordination

The year 2018 saw greater coordination of EU Member State actions. In

Palestine

in particular, the

EU works together with its Member States under the umbrella of the European Joint Strategy in

support of Palestine (2017–2020). This was the first European joint strategy for Palestine endorsed

locally by Heads of Mission in December 2016 and approved by the Commission as the EU strategy in

December 2017. This three-year strategy aligns with the Palestinian National Policy Agenda 2017–

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

2022. In 2018, European Development Partners started to hold joint policy dialogue with the

Palestinian National Authority on the basis of the jointly designed Results-Oriented Framework. The

Joint Programming Document for Egypt received the support from the capitals and headquarters in

September 2018, with the objective of fostering an enhanced division of labour and coherence of

European cooperation in Egypt.

In several other countries, in the absence of a global joint programming exercise, the EU led efforts

at sector level to enhance coordination and improve the exchange of information between the EU

and its Member States. For example, this was the case in

Morocco

in the sectors of governance,

migration and gender.

The EU also devoted substantial efforts to enhancing coordination with international, European and

Arab financial institutions working in the Neighbourhood South. High-level meetings with financing

partners were organised as part of the World Bank–IMF spring meetings in April 2018. In addition,

throughout the year, EU services and financing institutions met frequently at technical and

operational levels to increase the coherence of EU operations and, therefore, maximise their impact.

Gathering together the main multilateral finance institutions, the Luxembourg Group met in January

and December. On 12 July 2018, Commissioner Hahn led the first joint high-level mission in Tunis

with eight European and international financial institutions (AFD, AfDB, EBRD, EIB, IFC, IMF, KfW and

the World Bank) operating in the Neighbourhood South. The aim of the mission was to collectively

encourage key Tunisian stakeholders (government, parliament, representatives of civil society, trade

u io s a d the p i ate se to to ea ti ate Tu isia s so ioe o o i efo

p og a

e a d,

notably, to step up efforts to:



stabilise public finances;

stimulate PSD;

alleviate social pressure.

Furthermore, the Southern Mediterranean Investment Coordination Initiative, by achieving synergy

among the EU, the Member States and European finance institutions, continued to inform EU

activities in the Neighbourhood South relating to growth, facilitating investments and creating jobs.

Blending operations under the NIP proved again to be powerful instruments in leveraging significant

additional financial resources for EU objectives and in increasing cooperation with financing

institutions. For example, the EU Initiative for Financial Inclusion, launched

, aises the EU s

profile and increases coordination with European finance institutions. Its Coordination Platform met

twice in 2018 to discuss the priorities and potential for providing future support for the private

sector in the Neighbourhood South, with an emphasis on access to finance. As of December 2018,

the initiative has sustained more than 210 000 jobs and supported the creation of around 50 000

new jobs.

3.5.2.6. Working towards the SDGs

In 2018, by implementing the revised ENP, the EU continues to contribute to the pursuit of several

SDGs in the European Neighbourhood South. Its primary focus is on good governance, the rule of

law and human rights (SDG 16) to help consolidate democracy in several countries, both through the

adoption of new policy and cooperation frameworks and through concrete cooperation programmes

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

in such countries as Jordan, Lebanon and Tunisia. Support for decent work and economic growth

(SDG 8) and industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) has featured prominently in EU

cooperation through bilateral (Algeria, Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon) and regional programmes aimed

at enhancing investments, developing the private sector and making the business environment more

attractive. Support for affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13) has also

been provided both bilaterally (in Egypt, and in Lebanon to support the transition to clean energy)

and at regional level. In almost all countries in the region, the EU supports basic needs and inclusive

human development (health, SDG 3, and education, SDG 4), in particular for the most vulnerable, for

migrants and for refugees.

Regional cooperation

Access to

professional, credible and pluralist media

is an essential safeguard for a healthy democracy. In

the frame

o k of the

OPEN media hub

programme, almost

2 000 media professionals

the wider neighbourhood have been trained since

the start in 2016. The OPEN Media Hub has worked

with 471 media outlets (225 in Neighbourhood

East and 246 in Neighbourhood South), and 280

have signed a memorandum of understanding for

deeper engagement. This impressive outreach has

also been yielding results in terms of

improved

quality of content

and

professionalism.

The

regional dimension of the programme has been equally successful. The networks created over time have

been fostered through numerous

networking events, study tours

and other relevant activities. For

example, in 2018, the first International Conference on Journalism (Assises International du Journalisme) in

Tunis brought together more than 800 journalists from Neighbourhood South for lively discussions covering

a wide range of topics. With regard to migration specifically, synergy was sought with another EU-funded

p og a

e alled EMM , hi h takes the fo of a

Migration Media Award.

This has yielded another set

of excellent networking opportunities for policymakers and for journalists representing all kinds of media,

celebrating journalistic excellence and promoting balanced reporting on migration.

3.6.

The OCTs

3.6.1. Introduction

The Overseas Association Decision (OAD) (

107

) establishes the legal framework for relations among

the OCTs (

108

), the Member States to which they are linked and the EU. On the basis of the Treaty on

the Functioning of the European Union, the purpose of the association is to promote the economic

and social development of the OCTs, to establish close economic relations between them and the EU

as a whole and to promote EU values in the wider world.

107

108

https://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/sites/devco/files/council-decision-overseas-association-2013-755_en.pdf.

The OCTs depend constitutionally on four of the EU Member States: Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The 25

EU OCTs are: Anguilla, Aruba, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Antarctic Territory, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Cayman

Islands, Curaçao, Falkland Islands, French Polynesia, French Southern and Antarctic Territories, Greenland, Montserrat, New Caledonia,

Pitcairn Islands, Saba, Saint Helena and Dependencies, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Barthélemy, St Eustatius, South

Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands and Wallis and Futuna.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

In this context, the EU provides financial support to the OCTs via the OAD, mainly through the EDF,

with EUR 364.5 million allocated under the 11th EDF–OCT for 2014–2020.

The 11th EDF–OCT resources available to the OCTs are split into the following allocations, based on

Annex 2 of the OAD:



EUR 229.5 million for territorial (bilateral) allocations to 16 OCTs, in accordance with the

criteria established in the Decision;

EUR 100 million for regional cooperation and integration;

EUR 21.5 million in Envelope B to finance humanitarian and emergency assistance;

EUR 5 million to finance interest subsidies and technical assistance through the OCT

Investment Facility managed by the EIB;

EUR 8.5 million for studies and technical assistance.



Regional programmes seek to foster cooperation among OCTs in the same region that share similar

challenges and priorities. Partnerships with other funding sources, including other EU financial

instruments, are encouraged through cooperation with the neighbouring ACP and/or third countries

as ell as the EU s oute ost egio s.

I additio to te ito ial a d egio al p og a

es, a allo atio fo the The ati p og a

all-OCTs p og a

e –

will foster inter-OCT cooperation.

e –

Furthermore, Greenland is funded directly by the EU general budget based on the Greenland

Decision (

109

), allocating EUR 217.8 million to cooperation of mutual interest for the period 2014–

2020.

Institutional political and policy dialogue is conducted regularly throughout the year according to the

governance foreseen in the OAD. Therefore, in 2018, four tripartite meetings were held (with the

European Commission, relevant EU Member States and the OCTs), two Partnership Working Parties

were organised (covering trade issues, financial services and other subjects of common interest) and

the high-level OCT–EU Annual Forum took place in Brussels in February 2018.

3.6.2. Implementation

Part Four of the OAD establishes a programming process specific to OCTs. Unlike the ACP countries,

programming is not based on National Indicative Programmes, but organised around elaboration of

a Programming Document with two components: the EU Response Strategy (Part A) and the Action

Document (Part B).

Only one decision is taken by the European Commission to approve OCT Programming Documents,

covering both the strategic orientations and the detailed programme design. OCTs maintain the

The Eu opea Cou il s de isio o elatio s et ee the EU o the o e ha d a d G ee la d a d the Ki gdo of Denmark

on the

other (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0137&from=EN) allocates EUR 217.8 million for the period

2014–2020 to encourage cooperation between the Union and Greenland in an area of mutual interest.

109

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

primary responsibility for the establishment of Programming Documents, ensuring the necessary

consultation of local stakeholders.

As of December 2018, sectoral priorities have now been made for all territorial and regional

programmes under the 11th EDF or the EU budget. They are presented below, with the number of

OCTs that have chosen this sector as the priority for their bilateral programme:



education (four OCTs)

tourism (three OCTs)

energy (two OCTs)

connectivity (two OCTs)

water/sanitation (one OCT)

resilience (one OCT)

youth (one OCT)

digital development (one OCT)

sustainable development (one OCT)

employment (one OCT).

Budget support is the preferred implementation modality for territorial allocations in the OCTs. This

represents a positive shift away from the project modality previously used in several OCTs. Budget

support offers an efficient way of addressing cross-cutting, and long-term and structural challenges,

to focus on the results of national policies and maintain a constructive policy dialogue.

Bilateral cooperation, including budget support

With the adoption of the 11th EDF Programming Documents for both Montserrat and Saint Helena,

13 out of 17 OCTs with a territorial allocation including Greenland have finalised their programming,

as of December 2018.

In 2018, under the 11th EDF, EUR 65.62 million was disbursed, and EUR 96.2 million in total

(counting EU budget contributions to Greenland) was paid in favour of OCTs.

The Caribbean region

In September 2017, two Category 5 hurricanes impacted several Caribbean OCTs, bringing life-

threatening winds, storm surges and heavy rainfall that resulted in widespread damage to housing

and basic infrastructure. The most severely affected OCTs were Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands,

Saint Barthélemy, Saint Martin and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Montserrat, Saba and St Eustatius

were also badly affected.

Commission services worked actively together with OCT authorities to ensure that 11th EDF

territorial and regional programmes were adjusted to address the post-hurricane situation in the

OCTs and to support them in their resilience efforts. In addition, the non-allocated Envelope B under

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

the 11th EDF was mobilised in 2018 (EUR 15.04 million) for post-emergency assistance to the benefit

of Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, Saint Martin and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In 2018, sustainable energy, education, economic growth, tourism, employment, digital

development, connectivity and technical assistance were the key areas of budget support

programmes across the region.

Regarding

sustainable energy,

the disbursements of the budget support programmes in Saba and St

Eustatius were completed, resulting in increased resilience of the sector, renewable energy

production and more stable grids.

In the

education

sector, progress was made through the (ongoing) budget support programmes of

Anguilla and Turks and Caicos, making primary and secondary education and TVET more relevant in

meeting the needs of both current and future labour markets.

As for

economic growth,

2018 also saw the adoption of the 11th EDF Programming Document for

Montserrat to foster development in areas such as renewable energy and tourism. This budget

support programme represents a continuation of the 10th EDF programme in support of the island

sustainable development plan.

The Pacific region

tourism,

both French Polynesia and the Pitcairn Islands made progress on their sectoral policy,

attracting tourists and generating employment. For the Pitcairn Islands, this programme represents

a continuation of the 10th EDF budget support programme on tourism, which was completed in

2018.

In the

employment sector,

New Caledonia narrowed unemployment rates through efforts on

technical and vocational training.

digital development,

Wallis and Futuna has made considerable progress on its digital strategy. At

a time when digital accessibility is essential and can boost the whole economy, the programme

supports the rollout of the Tui-Samoa broadband cable to Wallis and Futuna in particular (

110

delivering high-speed broadband connectivity.

Other OCTs

Both the Falkland Islands and Saint Helena benefited from

connectivity

programmes under the 11th

EDF. In Saint Helena, the Programming Document was adopted in the course of 2018, and progress

was made on implementation of the digital strategy. In the Falkland Islands, the first steps were

taken towards improving the delivery of transport- and connectivity-related infrastructure.

tourism,

Saint Pierre and Miquelon has seen improved accessibility for tourists such that in the

peak seaso Sai t Pie e as ooked out .

Greenland

Greenland benefited from a contribution of EUR 30.36 million from the 2018 EU budget under the

2014–2020 programme, focusing on

education,

and EUR 0.25 million to provide

technical

110

The Tui-Sa

oa su

Futuna.

a i e a le u s et ee Apia, Sa oa a d Su a, Fiji,

ith la di g statio s i Sa ai i, Sa usa u a d Wallis a d

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assistance.

This programme is helping to reform the elementary school system, improve the

management skills of school directors, upgrade the skills of existing teachers and update the

ou t s edu atio st ateg fo

–2022.

Regional cooperation

In 2018, all three 11th EDF Regional OCT Programming Documents were adopted.

In the

Pacific,

the egio al p og a

e P otege

(Projet régional océanien des territoires pour la

gestion durable des écosystèmes,

EUR 36 million), signed in February 2018, supports sustainable and

resilient development in the region by protecting biodiversity and renewable natural resources. It

uilds o the th EDF egio al p og a

e I teg e

Initiative des territoires pour la gestion

r gio ale de l’e iro e e t,

EUR 12 million), that supported integrated coastal management and

reinforced regional cooperation on sustainable development.

For the

Indian Ocean,

the regional programme (Progra

e R gio al d’appui da s le se teur de

l’o ser atio , de la gestio et de la pr ser atio des

écosystèmes terrestres et marins,

EUR 4 million),

signed in February 2018, aims to improve the surveillance and observation of terrestrial and marine

ecosystems in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands, restoring ecosystems and reinforcing impact

prevention mechanisms. The 10th EDF regional programme focused on the sustainable management

of the natural heritage of Mayotte and the Scattered Islands (EUR 3 million).

In the

Caribbean,

the Rese id Resilie e, Sustai a le E e g a d Ma i e Biodi e sit Regional

Programme, EUR 40 million), signed in October 2018, will strengthen environmentally sustainable

economic development by focusing on resilience, sustainable energy and marine biodiversity. It will

upgrade the outdated infrastructure and increase its energy efficiency, improve protection and

sustainable management of marine biodiversity and increase resilience to extreme and recurrent

natural events. Under the 10th EDF, the ongoing Caribbean regional programme also supports

development of SMEs (EUR 15 million).

On the ongoing 10th EDF all-OCTs

Te ito ial st ategies fo i o atio the ati p og a

e, o k

has been done to help the OCTs diversify their economies and improve their competitiveness

through, among other things, nine pilot projects in Aruba, Bonaire, the British Virgin Islands,

Curaçao, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Saint Helena, Saint Pierre and Miquelon and St Eustatius.

Formulation of the 11th EDF all-OCTs thematic programme also made progress throughout 2018,

with sustainable energy and climate change being the two focal sectors. The financing decision by

the Commission for the programme is expected for early 2019.

Finally, through an operating grant in 2018, Commission support helped the Overseas Countries and

Territories Association fulfil its mandate by facilitating dialogue between the EU and the partners

and consolidating the partnership.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

4. Managing aid

4.1.

Monitoring systems

4.1.1. New reporting system on SDGs

At the end of 2018, the DAC Working Party on Development Finance Statistics agreed to incorporate

SDG reporting in DAC financial statistics. A full set of data will be available in 2020, and this will

feature in the 2020 Annual Report on 2019 figures as well as in OECD statistics. It was decided, on

practical grounds, that EU reporting on SDGs will be done at goal level for commitments and

payments. This will be of a transversal nature and allow several SDGs to be allocated to a single

project. The results will allow for aggregated statistics on how much was committed and disbursed

towards individual SDGs.

4.1.2. Evaluation: Review of the work programme

Commission evaluation services are responsible for the steering, coordination, monitoring and

reporting of the evaluation function. They produce timely, high-quality evaluation results for

decision-making and accountability. They manage strategic evaluations, which can be geographic,

thematic, sectoral or based on instruments or budget support. They also monitor and support the

evaluations carried out by other services that oversee projects and programmes.

In 2018, the evaluation services published 10 strategic evaluations, comprising:



four thematic evaluations on PCD, SSR, social protection and sustainable energy;

two regional evaluations on cooperation with eastern and southern Africa, the Indian Ocean

and West Africa;

three country-level evaluations on EU cooperation with Afghanistan, Azerbaijan and Côte

d I oi e;

one budget support evaluation on cooperation with Cambodia.



In December 2018, strategic evaluations were in progress under the following categories:

1) Eleven thematic/instrument evaluations on:

a) conflict prevention and peacebuilding;

b) CSOs and local authorities (separately for sub-Saharan Africa, Asia–Pacific and Latin

America and the Caribbean and for enlargement and Neighbourhood countries);

c) VET for sustainable and inclusive growth;

d) state-building contracts;

e) the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa;

the sector approach under IPA II;

g) the rule of law in enlargement and Neighbourhood countries;

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h) twinning;

EU information centres in enlargement and Neighbourhood countries;

migration.

2) Two regional-level evaluations in Central Africa and Latin America.

3) Seven country-level evaluations, in:

a) Armenia;

b) Central African Republic;

c) Croatia;

d) Mali;

e) Myanmar;

Nicaragua;

g) Serbia.

4) Two budget support evaluations, in:

a) El Salvador;

b) Rwanda.

The next section presents a brief summary of each evaluation published in 2018.

4.1.2.1. Summary of strategic evaluations

Thematic evaluations

Evaluation of EU policy on PCD (2009–2016)

The objective here was to provide EU institutions, EU Member States, CSOs, academia and other

stakeholders with an independent assessment of the EU PCD actions, taking into account objectives

that were likely to affect developing countries. The evaluation focused on PCD mechanisms that the

EU has put in place to respond to challenges and commitments. It concluded that the EU takes a lead

role on PCD internationally. Although the EU has continued to improve the existing policymaking

framework by introducing successive changes, PCD mechanisms have limited efficiency. The

evaluation highlighted that the effectiveness of the EU PCD approach could be improved. It

concluded that impact assessments and inter-service consultations play a far more significant role in

promoting PCD in the policy formulation process and that measuring the impact of PCD remains

challenging.

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Evaluation of EU support for SSR in enlargement and Neighbourhood countries (2010–2016)

The evaluation was conducted to help strengthen democratic accountability and transparency and

improve policy and practice through evidence-based learning. It confirmed that the EU achieved

positive effects through its promotion of EU values and interests in the enlargement and

Neighbourhood regions. A major strength

of the EU s fi a ial suppo t fo SSR lies i the a ge of

funding modalities it can draw on to provide assistance. Closer linkage with the bilateral

programmes of EU Member States is desirable to multiply the effects of EU support for SSR. The

evaluation also concluded that there are a number of areas where the 2016 Joint Communication on

an EU-wide strategic framework has yet to become fully operationalised and is still struggling to

achieve results. Producing successful results in SSR requires a long-term, strategic approach by the

EU that is flexible and responsive to changing beneficiary contexts and needs and which

acknowledges that SSR is a highly technical as well as an intrinsically political process. During the

time frame of the evaluation, the EU struggled to plan and implement interventions that consistently

met these foundational prerequisites for successful SSR engagement.

Evaluation of EU support for social protection in external action (2007–2013)

The evaluation assessed the extent to which EU support for social protection contributed to

achieving its objectives. The geographical scope included all third regions and countries covered by

the IPA (including Croatia but excluding Iceland), the European Neighbourhood and Partnership

Instrument/ENI (except Syria and Libya), DCI and EDF.

Although EU actions have contributed to tangible progress in the fight against social exclusion and

alleviation of poverty, effective country-level success has not yet been achieved. The sustainability of

many effects/benefits achieved remains fragile. Implementation modalities have been used in a

reasonably effective and efficient way. In particular, the use of budget support has contributed to

policy reforms while supporting the implementation of specific social protection schemes with a

range of partners. While there has been complementarity between the instruments used by the EU

to support social protection and the EU has made efforts to link social protection interventions to

other interventions (e.g. humanitarian assistance, food security), the level of synergy achieved has

remained limited. Moreover, the use of global thematic programmes to support social protection

could be strengthened.

E aluatio of the EU’s sustai a le e ergy ooperatio (

–2016)

This evaluation covers 11 initiatives or instruments for EU sustainable energy support to partner

countries in three main intervention areas: policy dialogue, capacity development and investment

support. The geographic focus was on sub-Saharan Africa and, to a more limited extent, Asia–Pacific

and the Caribbean. The evaluation concluded that EU sustainable energy cooperation was well

conceived and has led to results that have improved the policy environment and increased capacity

and prospects for sustainability. Although interventions were well aligned where national or regional

sector frameworks were sound, EU support was relatively unambitious in its aim to bring about

reform. The EU took a lead in establishing strong coordination of and added value to Member States

efforts. Focus on promoting private sector engagement in the energy sector was well conceived but

was hampered by lack of an enabling environment, capacity constraints and support that did not

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match local private sector capacity. The evolution from grant financing of investment to use of

financial instruments was sound although not without its challenges.

Regional evaluations

Evaluation of cooperation with eastern and southern Africa and the Indian Ocean (2008–2015)

The final evaluation concluded that important results were obtained in all three priority areas

(regional integration, peace security and stability, and natural resources management), although

resources could have been used more efficiently and progress towards reaching objectives and

sustai

a ilit

as u e e . The EU s o e all st ategi i te est i egio al i teg atio

as ot

sufficiently operationalised at the level of political or policy dialogue, and political dialogue did not

address contentious issues. Support for activities beyond the core role of the Duly Mandated

Regional Organisations (DMROs) tended to dilute their

raison

d’ tre.

Contributors should refocus

their support on DMRO core business and on the areas of support that are likely to yield results.

Non-state actors, particularly the private sector, are important drivers for regional integration and

should be more involved in the future.

Evaluation of EU cooperation with the West Africa region (2008–2016)

This study covers all focal sectors of regional cooperation with 15 Member States, namely:



regional peace, security and stability,

regional economic integration,

transport,

energy,

food and nutrition security,

agriculture and resilience,

natural resource management.

EU regional support paved the way for developing common methodologies for use by all West

African countries in fundamental areas such as PFM or the prevention of food and nutrition crises.

EU support facilitated the drafting and adoption of policies that were essential for strengthening

regional integration. However, the sustainability and impacts of EU-funded regional cooperation

actions are rather low. The main factors accounting for these limited performances are superficial

ownership by the various West African stakeholders, the inaptitude of regional organisations to

discharge the duties entrusted to them by their Member States and shortcomings in the formulation

of the regional programmes supported by the EU.

Among others, one important recommendation is to support a revival of regional cooperation based

on a common vision of regional integration.

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Country evaluations

Evaluation of EU cooperation with Afghanistan (2007–2016)

The evaluation covers EU cooperation with Afghanistan during the period 2007–2016 and assesses

its relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, coordination and complementarity as well as EU

added value, potential negative effects and gender as a cross-cutting issue. The evaluation shows

that the gradual streamlining of the EU portfolio towards fewer and larger contracts and the

increased proportion of funding in the form of contributions to multi-contributor trust funds

(resulting in higher support on-budget) has had multiple benefits. It also highlights the importance of

continuing to use a mix of on-budget and off-budget interventions and of taking into account the

absorption capacities of the government. A major added value of EU support has been its reliability

and continuity, which is widely appreciated by stakeholders and has led to tangible outcomes and

impacts. Another instance of EU added value has been the relative independence of its support from

geopolitical interests.

Evaluation of EU cooperation with Azerbaijan (2011–2016)

The portfolio of EU assistance projects in Azerbaijan had a strong emphasis on Twinning, TAIEX and

grants to CSOs and a relatively modest reliance on technical assistance operations. This

configuration appears to have suited the needs and preferences of Azerbaijani institutions (in the

case of Twinning and TAIEX) and the opportunity to pursue EU policy objectives regarding

democratisation and human rights (grants to CSOs). As of December 2018, under these conditions,

the balance among the various instruments could well be retained for the future.

The three focal areas (regional and rural development, justice sector reform, and education and

skills development) should be kept by the Single Support Framework as they are well aligned with

both country needs and EU objectives. In addition, future programming could consider more

emphasis on the development of private sector activities outside agriculture, which is of importance

to support the strategic objective of economic diversification. Finally, measures should be devised to

strengthen the monitoring of CSO-implemented actions to ensure that, apart from the difficulties

originating from the operating environment, activities are more efficiently implemented and

documented.

E aluatio of ooperatio

ith the Côte d’I oire (

7–2015)

This evaluation considers that, with EUR 629.5 million committed and EUR 531.5 million disbursed,

the EU has been able to use its uninterrupted presence during the 2002–2011 conflict and its

diplomatic position to support successive governments, and it has thus contributed to the

reconstruction of the country.

However, contextual and institutional factors, including policy dialogue, have limited the relevance,

effe ti e ess a d effi ie

of oope atio . At se to al le el, the EU s de isio to o e out of the

health sector overlooked the important challenges facing the country, whose inhabitants had a life

expectancy much lower than the average of sub-Saharan African countries in 2012.

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Thus, the evaluation recommends that, in future, the EU should take better account of the factors

affecting fragility and the challenges of persistent social and regional disparities and of creating

shared and sustainable growth.

Budget support evaluations

Evaluation of EU budget support in Cambodia (2011–2016)

This evaluation provides evidence of the contribution of two budget support operations (the

Edu atio se to poli suppo t p og a

–

a d the Edu atio se to efo

partnership 2014–

to the a hie e e t of the edu atio se to goals of the Ca odia

government.

The evaluation concludes that the budget support programmes were effective in influencing the

a hie e e t of the efo s ta geted i the go e

e t s edu atio poli

Edu atio St ategi

Plans) and that these reforms contributed to improving education outcomes. The complexity of

pivotal reforms, sector capacity constraints and insufficient scaling resulted in slower progress than

initially planned by the Cambodian government, but this progress would have been even slower

without the budget support programmes.

4.1.3. Lessons learned

This section provides key emerging lessons from some of the evaluations of EU cooperation finalised

in 2018 by Commission services.

Evaluation of EU policy on PCD (2009–2016)

The e aluatio o fi ed the EU s politi al ill o PCD, e p essed as a o

o positio of the EU

and its Member States. This constitutes a key element underpinning the sustainability of the EU PCD

approach. The evaluation revealed that there is a lack of clarity among institutional stakeholders

concerning the extent of EU commitment to PCD. It highlighted that the EU PCD approach remains

relevant at the strategic level, but that at operational level it needs to be adapted to the new SDG

context. Measuring the impact of PCD remains challenging because of a lack of suitable baselines,

targets or indicators linked to PCD.

Evaluation of EU support for SSR in enlargement and Neighbourhood countries (2010–2016)

The evaluation found that EU actors have not systematically developed and agreed on a common set

of SSR objectives for each IPA and ENP beneficiary; nor have they routinely engaged in shared

analysis of SSR as a precursor to joint planning and programming in the pursuit of overall agreed

objectives for SSR in each beneficiary. A lack of commitment on the part of key beneficiary political

elites has created a particular constraint on EU efforts to promote SSR and helps to explain why a

significant number of EU-supported reform processes have not advanced significantly beyond

procedural compliance. The EU can become more strategically focused in translating beneficiary

needs and capacities into assistance that is consistent with EU political objectives. This includes:



performing regular assessments of beneficiary needs and capacities;

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019



routinely assessing beneficiary political and capacity constraints on EU programming,

sequencing EU support to address such constraints and adopting an iterative approach to EU

support;

being clear about the pathways by which change will occur by developing a fine-grained

understanding of the individuals and institutions that need to be involved in reform efforts,

mapping out the steps that are essential to promote change and avoiding the assumption

that technical activities by themselves can achieve high-level political objectives.



Evaluation of cooperation with eastern and southern Africa and the Indian Ocean (2008–2015)

EU regional support under EDF 10 and EDF 11 was aligned with and relevant to the formal regional

integration age

da, ut pa t e s o

it e t a d apa it

e e o e esti ated. I othe o ds,

this support underestimated the underlying assumptions and real incentives and interests affecting

the progress of regional integration in a complicated context with overlapping memberships of the

DMROs. However, weaknesses were addressed in the EDF 10 mid-term review. The EDF 11

adjustments and approach heeded these lessons and, generally, headed in the right direction. In

particular, the EDF 11 Regional Indicative Programme recognised the need for a strong dual

regional/national approach and for a stronger private sector role.

I a eas that go e o d the DMROs ole of fa ilitati g egio al solutio s a d he e the DMROs a e

not the natural partners, applying the subsidiarity principle (

111

) and entrusting implementation to

specialist regional organisations has been shown to be effective.

Evaluation of EU cooperation with Afghanistan (2007–2015)

Regarding sectoral EU support, the evaluation finds that in the agriculture and rural development

and health sectors, institutional capacities and policy frameworks have been improved and this has

positi el affe ted se i e deli e . This, i tu , has o t i uted to i p o i g people s li es

enhancing agricultural productivity and incomes, reducing maternal and child mortality rates and

improving local governance. However, in the democratisation and accountability and policing and

rule of law sectors, EU-funded interventions have produced mixed results, with improvements

associated mainly with capacity development and service delivery projects in the areas of budgeting

and public sector management. The impact of interventions that aimed at increasing civic

engagement and citizen participation in the democratic process has been limited.

The evaluators also conclude that a general shortcoming at the programme level is that monitoring

has been mainly output oriented with less attention paid to tracking and verifying outcomes and

impacts.

Evaluation of EU cooperation with Azerbaijan (2011–2016)

EU assistance to Azerbaijan was well aligned with national priorities and EU policy objectives and

able to adjust to changes in external conditions. The growing emphasis placed by the government on

A ti le

of the TEU:

Under the principle of subsidiarity, in areas which do not fall within its exclusive competence, the Union shall act

only if and in so far as the objectives of the proposed action cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States, either at central level or

at regional and local level, but can rather, by reason of the scale or effects of the proposed action, be better achieved at

U io le el.’

111

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

the need to diversify the economy was met with a larger proportional allocation to socioeconomic

development and human capital development.

On the other hand, the effectiveness of EU assistance initiatives was moderately satisfactory. In

certain cases (namely, actions implemented via CSOs) the reduced space for civil society activities

played a significant role. In general, performance was better in the case of actions pursuing

o je ti es ith a high te h i al o te t e.g. the i p o e e t of e tai p o edu es, the

development of new tools), whereas initiatives with high-level policy and political implications (e.g.

the promotion of renewables) sometimes met with resistance and performed less well. Nonetheless,

the EU should continue providing support to CSOs, which remain essential partners in the pursuit of

strengthening democracy and the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Evaluation of EU budget support in Cambodia (2011–2016)

Budget support was found to help reforms progress, but this was mostly when reforms were also

government priorities. Progress on many education reforms only occurred or accelerated after 2013,

when a new minister was appointed and education became an explicit government policy. Similarly,

the evaluation found that the EU-led Capacity Development Partnership Fund was pivotal in moving

governance reforms forward, but only if these reforms were also driven by the government.

However, even when reforms were a priority for the government, this was no guarantee that

progress would be fast or steady. Regardless, this progress would have been even slower without

the EU budget support programmes.

Budget support also contributed to more effective aid delivery by signalling that country systems can

be used and by anchoring the sector partnership and dialogue.

4.2.

Aid delivery modalities

4.2.1. Budget support, PFM

Budget support remained an important instrument in the architecture of European external action;

in 2018 it was used in 91 countries or territories and represented about 35–40 % of EU bilateral

ODA.

SRBCs have been a valuable instrument in stabilising post-conflict and fragile situations. They

continue to be implemented in countries like Afghanistan, Central African Republic and Gambia.

Mo e tha a othe t pe of o t a t, SRBCs ai to suppo t pa t e ou t ies ital state

functions

in delivering basic services to populations, thus contributing to addressing the causes of fragility and

to promoting stability and state building. The new SDG contracts, introduced by the updated budget

support guidelines in 2017, have started taking shape in countries like Ghana and Senegal. The

largest sectors for the sector reform performance contracts are agriculture, education, energy and

health. The revised budget support guidelines also led to a simplification of processes, notably

through more targeted reporting in the disbursement dossiers.

In 2018, a total of EUR 1.83 billion was newly committed and EUR 1.67 billion was paid through

budget support. Sector reform performance contracts remain the most used contracts (73 %),

followed by SRBCs (17 %) and SDG contracts (10 %).

The 2018 OECD DAC Peer Review recognises the EU global leadership in development and points to

its innovative use of budget support, encouraging ownership and inclusiveness in partner countries.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

EU budget support was thus seen as fostering development effectiveness. The OECD DAC Peer

Review highlighted the innovativeness of the SRBCs in particular.

Example from budget support: Somalia

A roadmap and an SRBC were negotiated with Somalia and signed in mid-October 2018. The risks in this

country were recognised, but so too were the opportunities created by the tangible progress made by the

current administration in the implementation of a security and economic reform agenda and a more

inclusive approach to politics. PFM, including DRM, have been areas of progress since 2017, in particular

concerning improvement of institutional capacity and less constrained financing. From the security

perspective, the SRBC comes at a crucial time of planned transition from the AU Mission in Somalia to

Somali security forces. The SRBC is expected to support the reform process, create a comprehensive

platform for a dialogue, strengthen intergovernmental relations and reinforce national institutions and

service delivery.

In 2018, a study on indicators used to define performance in budget support covered the 213 budget

support programmes started between January 2014 and December 2017. Besides technical

conclusions, the study also pinpointed features for further analysis. For example, the fact that, on

average, only 70 % of variable tranches are disbursed seems to indicate the incentive nature of these

disbursements. It is also noteworthy that the thematic analysis of the indicators shows a clear

preponderance of SDG 16 (which includes PFM), SDG 2 (zero hunger) and SDG 4 (quality education).

Gender-responsive budgeting is gaining momentum as a way to address gender inequalities. As part

of the EU GAP II, gender analysis is systematically promoted through budget support operations and

support to PFM reform programmes. In 2018, dedicated internal analyses and studies were

conducted along with webinars and targeted training; there were also public debates during the

2018 European Development Days (EDDs). Additional guidance and training are being developed to

further encourage actions that reduce the gender gap and promote social justice.

In the enlargement and the eastern Neighbourhood regions, budget support has a strong emphasis

on PARs, which is starting to transform the national legislative and regulatory frameworks, and

provide guidance and better quality assurance processes for more streamlined strategic planning,

coordination, monitoring and human resources management across administrations. This

strengthens the conditions for budget support operations in general and effectively embeds the

sector reform performance contracts within the overall process for modernising public services.

Globally, EU budget support contributes to improving PFM systems

–

especially in relation to SDG 16

–

and, more specifically, in the relevant sector(s) and SDG(s) covered by each budget support

programme.

The objectives of reforming PFM systems are to improve fiscal effectiveness and strategic allocation

of resources in line with policy objectives as well as to promote accountability and greater efficiency

in services delivery, particularly in the context of scarce resources. The EU has strengthened relevant

and credible PFM reform programmes with structured and open dialogue. In this process, partner

countries have been systematically accompanied by capacity-building measures. As an example, in

the e la ge e t ou t ies, the St e gthe i g e o o i go e a e a d pu li fi a ial

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

a age e t p og a

e EUR

8 million) has been instrumental in improving capacity building in

budget planning, public investment, medium-term expenditure frameworks, fiscal risks and DRM.

PFM reforms have been informed by a number of assessments. By December 2018, 598 Public

Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) assessments had been conducted in more than 150

countries, many of them (co-)financed by the EU. For the period 2017–2021, the EU contributed

EUR 5 million to the work of the PEFA Secretariat.

In Cameroon, as the EU was re-engaging through budget support, the PEFA provided evidence of

p og ess si e

a d ide tified so e ui k i s i.e. isi le de elop e ts ith i

ediate

benefits delivered shortly after projects began).

In Togo, the combination of a PEFA, public investment management and debt management

performance assessment was instrumental in bringing together distinct reform processes and

related support programmes from the EU, the IMF, the World Bank and the AfDB.

In Niger, the PEFA was used to draw up a new reform action plan and to revive dialogue with the

authorities and among the various development partners, drawing lessons from the progress made

and issues pending since the previous assessment.

Between 2016 and 2018, 16 PIM assessments were conducted worldwide, and the reports have

been used as the basis for prioritised and sequenced reform action plans for public investment

systems. In 2018, the Commission provided EUR 2 million to the multi-contributor Global

Procurement Partnership, administered through the World Bank, to improve public procurement

practices and governance. Notably, the partnership fund will support the Methodology for Assessing

Procurement Systems, providing a common tool for analysing the strengths and weaknesses of

public procurement systems. In the enlargement and Neighbourhood countries, pieces of legislation

are being aligned with EU public procurement rules. All countries in the Western Balkans were

assessed against the Principles of Public Administration in the area of public procurement.

The Commission is cooperating closely with the IMF through the Public Finance Management

Partnership Programme (PFM-PP), contributing EUR 5 million in 2018. The programme focuses on

providing support to fragile and low-income countries, with an emphasis on public investment

management and fiscal risk management.

Within the Strategic Partnership Framework with the IMF, the Commission co-organised and

supported the sixth Africa Fiscal Forum in Lusaka, Zambia, on 8–9 February 2018. Under the heading

Fis al poli i a e ol i g o ld , the fo u

ought together

senior officials from African

ministries of finance to engage on topical issues related to DRM and efficient spending to achieve

the SDGs, with a focus on debt sustainability. The annual Africa Fiscal Forum has evolved into a

much-appreciated peer-learning network for common fiscal challenges.

The Eu opea Co

issio s a ti ities i the field of DRM a d ith espe t to de t

more specifically highlighted in SDG 17.

a age e t a e

4.2.2. Using EU grants strategically via blending, including the European EIP

Demand for development funding has been increasing, not only to meet the SDGs but also to finance

capital-intensive projects (such as those related to infrastructure), to spur sustainable growth and

create decent jobs through support to SMEs and to assist partner countries in climate change

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

adaptation and mitigation measures. In many partner countries, investors

–

public or private

–

cannot access such funding through financial markets at the needed scale and cost, partly due to

market failures (e.g. when one party has more or better information than the other, or costs are

incurred by a party which did not choose to incur it), which often cause a gap between private and

social returns. Public support can bridge this gap and make projects happen. Partner countries are

also now looking at more complex projects

–

often multi-component and sometimes multi-sector

–

that contribute to poverty alleviation, are sustainable and frequently involve the use of frontier

technology. Such projects require tailored innovative financing instruments.

Blending uses limited amounts of public grants to mobilise financing from partner financial

institutions, like international development banks and the private sector, for projects that will do

most to help countries develop. The strategic use of a limited grant element can result in projects

with low financial return but a high economic (i.e. societal) return. Blending projects aim to achieve

sustainable growth and reduce poverty.

The EU Blending Framework comprises seven regional blending facilities (AIP (

112

), NIP, LAIF, IFCA,

AIF, CIF and IFP) and covers all regions of EU external cooperation. From the creation of the first

blending facilities in 2007, almost EUR 6 billion of EU grants have leveraged around EUR 48.5 billion

of loans by financial institutions and regional development banks for a total investment volume of

more than EUR 82.5 billion. The amounts approved in 2018 and the sectoral breakdown are

presented in Table 3 and Figure 5.

Table 3. EU contribution approved in 2018

(million EUR)

2018

NIP

AIP

ITF

LAIF

Thematic

IFCA

AIF

CIF

IFP

Total

315.7

372.3

18.2

36.7

198.6

12.5

43.4

2.1

19.7

1 019.2

112

AIP, replacing AITF.

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

Figure 5. Sector breakdown for 2018 approvals

In addition, new thematic initiatives

–

ElectriFI and the Agricultural Finance Initiative (AgriFI)

–

have

been set up to catalyse private resources via risk sharing between the public and the private sectors.

Almost EUR 500 million has already been allocated to these initiatives.

In collaboration with the private sector and development financiers,

ElectriFI

is a tool designed to

support investments that provide reliable, affordable and sustainable energy services to people

living in underserved rural areas and/or areas with an unreliable power supply. The emphasis will be

on decentralised sustainable energy solutions, but grid-connected projects will not be excluded.

Based on its international reputation, the initiative has received financial contributions from Power

Africa and Sweden, and Italy also wants to participate. Several partner countries have made requests

to channel some of their bilateral NIP/Regional Indicative Programme funding to the initiative,

the e

eati g Ele t iFI i do s . Fi st o e s ha e ee Be i , Côte d I oi e, Nige ia a d

Zambia and the Pacific region for a total of EUR 93 million.

AgriFI

aims to increase investment in smallholder agriculture and agribusiness MSMEs to achieve

inclusive and sustainable agricultural growth. A central feature of AgriFI is that the provision of EU

support will mobilise additional public and private investment, in particular through the provision of

risk capital, guarantees or other risk-sharing mechanisms. EU support will contribute to de-risking an

investment or to closing a financing gap.

Backed up by technical capacity to support the development and enhancement of business

development and advisory services, AgriFI responds to a lack of suitable financing mechanisms for

farmers and agri-entrepreneurs, particularly MSMEs. AgriFI also supports the design and

implementation of value chain monitoring frameworks to assess the sustainability of particular value

chains and inform investment decisions (using the VCA4D tool). Risk capital was provided for the

Agri-Business Capital ABC Fund (with IFAD) in 2018, in addition to funding already agreed in late

2017 for the AgriFI facility (with FMO) and the African Agriculture Trade and Investment Fund

(German development bank KfW).

These two initiatives aim to enhance private sector engagement with a focus on blending.

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4.3.

Improving ways of working

4.3.1. Simplification of procedures

The Co

issio s p oposals fo si plifi atio

ade at the e isio of the Budget Fi a ial

Regulation and the 11th EDF Financial Regulation (11th EDF FR) were adopted in the new Budget

Financial Regulation of 18 July 2018 and the new 11th EDF FR of 26 November 2018.

The simplifications have been applied to contractual procedures for procurement, grants and

indirect management with partner organisations.

The e , si ple o t a tual f a e o k elies o e o pa t e s e isti g ules a d p o edu es a d

builds on extended pillar assessments to determine whether protection of EU financial interests is

equivalent.

For procurements and grants, the Practical Guide for European Union External Actions (PRAG) has

been revised and consolidates previous simplifications and recommendations for improvement.

Within the proposals for the next Multiannual Financial Framework, the Commission proposed that

most external financing instruments, including the 11th EDF, should in future be replaced by a single

instrument, the NDICI, designed to cover all external actions except those with a distinct legal basis.

The esult is laid do i the Co

issio s NDICI

and Nuclear Safety proposal.

4.3.1.1. Indirect management

The new Financial Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2018/1046) provides a number of simplifications to

facilitate better cooperation with partner organisations. From now on, the same set of contractual

provisions will apply in all cases where actions are implemented by pillar-assessed organisations (in

particular international organisations and Member State organisations) as there is no longer a need

to distinguish between direct and indirect management.

A te plate o t i utio ag ee e t has ee d afted, epla i g the u e t Pagoda te plates.

Also, in line with the new Financial Regulation, the use of simplified cost options will be promoted.

For this purpose, a standardised assessment procedure is being developed to ensure coherent and

reliable application. Furthermore, results-based financing has been introduced as an alternative to

focusing solely on costs incurred.

The existing framework agreements with partner organisations will be updated in line with the new

Financial Regulation while looking for more opportunities for cross-reliance on audits.

4.3.1.2. Grants and procurement

The 2018 PRAG entered into force on 2 August 2018, the same date as the new Financial Regulation.

While the 2018 PRAG is closely related to the new Financial Regulation, it introduces other

important innovations and accommodates recommendations for improvement from the EU

Ombudsman and several services within the Commission (Internal Audit Service, DEVCO, NEAR and

Foreign Policy Instruments).

The 2018 PRAG incorporates guidance regarding the promotion of good tax governance and contains

an update of the ethical clauses, introducing a clause on zero tolerance for sexual harassment and

exploitation accompanied by a reporting obligation for contractors and grant beneficiaries.

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4.4.

Communication, transparency and learning

4.4.1. Communication

Communicating the results and achievements of EU development programmes and projects and

raising awareness of the tangible difference they make to the lives of millions worldwide is crucial.

Throughout 2018, Commission services extended communication and outreach efforts to strengthen

EU accountability to citizens, increase participation at the leading stakeholder EDDs and develop

social media channels through engaging campaigns.

The 12th edition of the EDDs took place on 5–6 June 2018 in Brussels and was devoted to gender

e ualit a d o e s e po e e t. Al ost

000 participants attended, representing the largest

attendance recorded and an increase of 12 % compared to the previous edition. Eight web-streamed

Kapuscinski Development Lectures were organised, as well as important events and activities at the

External Cooperation Information Point in Brussels, ensuring great audience exposure to

development policies.

A major highlight in 2018 was the launch of the EU–UN Spotlight Initiative regional programme for

Latin America during the UN General Assembly week in September. Thanks to an effective media

strategy and cooperation with the UN, an online audience of around 675 million readers was

reached.

A dedicated communication network was created in 2018 to ensure a stronger and more active

out ea h to EU Me e States. The digital platfo

DIVA e a e full ope atio al i Ap il, a d i

late May an event promoting gender (SDG 5) was staged simultaneously. The resulting social media

video campaign was displayed more than 1.5 million times.

I o atio i Co

issio se i es o li e o

u i atio o ti ued th oughout

. Mo e tha

40 videos were produced, and social media channels include a particularly active Instagram account.

Fou Fa es Hea ts logge s tou ed Co

issio se i e p oje ts a ou d the o ld f o Ja ua to

May, contributing to one of the most successful campaigns ever with 35 million people reached and

5 million people actively engaged. Commission services also increased live coverage of events and

offered more live chats than ever before (10 in 2018 versus 3 in 2017).

In addition, Commission representation at the 39th Rimini Meeting for Friendship among Peoples

ensured high-level participation in one of the biggest popular public festivals in Italy.

Communicating the objectives and results of the European Neighbourhood and enlargement policies

continued to be a priority. The Commission worked closely with the EEAS Strategic Communication

Task Forces and the EU delegations/offices in the regions to improve its strategic communication on

these policies. Target audiences are the wider public, through traditional media and social media

channels, as well as stakeholder communities, young people and media representatives through

dedicated events, study visits and press trips. Communication activities were addressed at audiences

both in the partner regions and in the EU. Information on the EU and EU assistance in individual

partner countries was increasingly based on thematic or country-specific campaigns to reinforce the

EU visibility and EU branding of its projects and outreach activities.

A number of major events were organised, such as: the EU–Western Balkans Media Days with over

300 media professionals participating; joint seminars with think tanks to reach out to stakeholder

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

audiences; and a TAIEX seminar on strategic communication, which provided a platform to exchange

know-how between national administrations of the EU Member States and government

communicators from the Western Balkans. Several press trips were organised to countries in the

region and journalists from there were invited on press trips to Brussels. With regard to the

Neighbourhood South and East, activities focused on the implementation of the two regional

communication programmes through joint events, the Young European Ambassadors scheme,

production of audiovisual material, social media campaigns, etc. This complements the activities to

address disinformation and misperceptions of the EU with positive messages and success stories of

people who benefited from EU assistance.

4.4.2. Transparency

The Commission is firmly committed to aid transparency in line with the new European Consensus

on Development in which the EU and its Member States reaffirm their commitment to applying the

key principles of development effectiveness. The Commission has continued to improve the

accountability and openness of aid through publishing timely, comprehensive and forward-looking

data in line with the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) standard and the OECD DAC

Creditor Reporting System (CRS) and Forward Spending Survey.

The Commission remains an active member of IATI. Data are published at least on a monthly basis;

an inter-service working group meets regularly to discuss and coordinate publication, and this group

has taken several measures to increase the quality and comprehensiveness of published data. These

include an upgrade to the 2.02 version of the IATI standard, increased coherence between the OECD

CRS and IATI reporting and publication of EUTF data, forward-looking data and results data. In the

2018 Aid Transparency Index, all Commission services assessed fell within the

good atego fo

contributors. The Commission has also been active in raising awareness and promoting use of the

published data.

The Commission continues to advocate the benefits of IATI with Member States. A new version of

the transparency portal, EU Aid Explorer, has been developed to visualise EU aid data. The new

version improves the user experience, achieves better coherence of data among EU institutions and

Member States and, therefore, increases the use of and applications for EU aid data.

4.4.3. Learning

In April 2018, the DEVCO Academy

– the Co

issio s fi st o li e lea i g platfo

pu li l

accessible for the entire development community

–

was officially launched. The Academy

encompasses e-learning courses, videos, webinars and documents to enhance public and

professional development education and to promote standardised development cooperation

approaches and measures. The DEVCO Academy caters to a vast audience, including representatives

of NGOs, international organisations, donors, stakeholders, development agencies, digitalisation

experts, universities, Member States, and youth and civil society interested in online learning

opportunities and development cooperation.

Since its official launch, DEVCO Academy has generated more than 400 000 site visits and counts

more than 5 000 enrolled users from 160 countries on all continents. In 2018, DEVCO Academy

hosted over 175 learning resources, of which more than 110 were interactive e-learning courses on

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European Commission Staff Working Document: Annual Report 2019

relevant topics, such as on gender equality, human rights, democracy, resilience and sustainable

development.

227