Model mission letters: CONCORD’s vision for the future of EU international cooperation and external action

In light of the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, CONCORD is putting forward our vision for the future of EU international cooperation and external action. This vision is outlined in our model mission letters for the future Commissioner for International Partnerships and High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

In a context of increasing geopolitical tensions, supporting sustainable development in partner countries should not be based on the EU’s commercial or geopolitical interests but rather on commitment to the 2030 Agenda, The next Commissioner for International Partnerships must also involve civil society as a genuine partner. 

EU external action must be based on human rights, human security and gender equality. The future High Representative must ensure the EU is true to its own principles in external affairs.

We are urging President von der Leyen to consider these letters while preparing the mission statements of the members of the next College of Commissioners.