CONCORD marked a significant success in our advocacy with the adoption of Council Conclusions on 27th November. The Conclusions represent a win for CONCORD’s work on Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development (PCSD), and a step in the right direction in progressing Agenda 2030.
While Official Development Aid (ODA) figures are reportedly at record highs, the AidWatch 2023 report shows how the EU and its Member States have managed once again to claim billions as aid that did not meet the most basic criteria to qualify as ODA.
2021 should have been the year to double down on ODA to counter compounding global challenges. Instead, 1 euro in every 6 from EU and Member States’ ODA budgets did not even go towards those left furthest behind.
Inequality is growing, democracy is eroding, and acute distress is increasing, but at the same time people’s awareness and inclusion are increasing. What is needed now is dialogue, critical thinking and cooperation.
CONCORD deplores Russia’s recent declaration of war on Ukraine and its unjustified attacks on Ukraine’s territory. CONCORD calls on Russia to withdraw its military forces from Ukraine and resort to peaceful dialogue to resolve any issues it may have.
We are saddened by the sudden departure of a generous leader who fought hard for the European Union and was a true friend to civil society. May he rest in peace.
Coronavirus is dominating the headlines. Not only is the economy slowing down, but so are most of the policy activities in Brussels. Starting from mid-March, the majority of meetings and events have been either cancelled or moved online.
On Sunday, March 11, a tragic plane crash took the lives of all 157 passengers travelling to Nairobi. Among the victims was Paolo Dieci, a most dedicated and passionate advocate for international cooperation.
CONCORD reacts to the ongoing reports in the media of sexual exploitation and abuse by staff employed by NGOs in partner countries.
Press Reaction – The AU EU Summit should have been a great opportunity for young people from Africa and the EU to exchange and listen to each other’s views. Scheduled to speak, and with speeches prepared, as part of the peace, security, and governance section of the Summit today, instead their contribution was ruled out on the grounds of “rules of procedure” after the objections of a number of delegations. Civil Society reacted to the situation.