CS engagement in the Global Gateway Initiative - A research
A New Horizon: Amplifying Civil Society Voices in the Global Gateway Strategy
The European Union's Global Gateway Strategy stands as a beacon of ambitious commitment, aiming to bridge the global investment gap through a values-driven, transparent approach to infrastructure development. This initiative isn't just about developing and financing infrastructures; it's about laying the foundations for a future that resonates with the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Paris Agreement. With a substantial budget earmarked to mobilize up to €300 billion by 2027, the Global Gateway embodies a comprehensive strategy that brings together the EU, its member states, and a plethora of development institutions to not only leverage investments but ensure these ventures bring enduring benefits to local communities, with their needs and strategic interests at the forefront.
At the heart of the Global Gateway's ethos is the integral inclusion of civil society in these developmental endeavours. The strategy is built upon the pillars of democratic values, good governance, and equal partnerships, underscored by a commitment to a human rights-based approach (HRBA). This commitment ensures that investments across sectors like digital, climate, energy, transport, health, and education are conducted with transparency and inclusivity, thereby empowering the voices of those most impacted by these projects.
In the words of Camilla Lombard, Deputy Head of Unit of INTPA G2, dealing with Local Authorities, Civil Society Organisations, and Foundations: "In the spirit of the Global Gateway, we are committed to not just building infrastructure but fostering partnerships that are rooted in democratic values and transparency. It's about ensuring that every project we undertake is a step towards a sustainable and inclusive future, where the voices of civil society are not just heard but are integral to our decision-making processes. This approach isn't just beneficial; it's essential for the legitimacy and success of our initiatives as Team Europe."
The Civil Society Roadmap Facility is currently examining the current policies and practices surrounding civil society engagement among the actors involved in the Global Gateway initiative. While it is evident that there is a unanimous commitment to sustainability standards that advocate for civil society engagement, the depth and quality of this engagement vary significantly across the board. The current research is therefore geared towards identifying the key players in the funding and implementation of Global Gateway projects, with an aim to select a representative sample for an in-depth analysis.
The attention particularly zeroes in on major funders like the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and KfW, given their substantial financial contributions, support for a significant number of initiatives, and notable importance in key sectors or regions of the Global Gateway. The research is analysing these partners' strategies for engaging with civil society at both strategic and project levels. The final report of this research is expected in June 2024.