In 2008, Europe provided 0.40% of its gross national income (GNI) in aid. Although this is an increase of €4 billion, in reality, a further €20bn is necessary over the next two years in order to meet its targets. Current rises are clearly falling far short of what is needed, and according to official estimates by the European Commission, the EU will not reach its 2010 collective 0.56% of GNI target until 2012.
Key findings
- If current trends continue, a maximum of only 10 countries will meet their 2010 aid commitments. This means that Europe is wa off-track on providing 0.7% of GNI in aid by 2015 – a promise made by Europe in 2002, vital for meeting the Millennium Development Goals. European aid for 2008 amounted to only 0.34% of collective GNI, nothing like the officially reported 0.40% and a very long distance from the 2010 target of 0.56%.