Fostering Inclusiveness In Team Europe Approach

In recent times, the 'Team Europe' approach has revitalized political synergy among the EU and member states, fostering a more effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, significant disparities exist in EU development cooperation, encompassing member states' experience, resources, and engagement capacity. A few prominent European national development agencies predominantly secure EU-funded contracts due to their substantial presence in partner countries or specific sectors.

This paper examines inclusiveness, emphasizing its significance in EU development policy from both a political and operational perspective. Inclusiveness advocates for the active involvement of all interested member states, along with their implementing agencies and development finance institutions, in the planning and execution of EU development cooperation initiatives. While inclusiveness is increasingly recognized in EU policies and laws, it faces institutional and operational hurdles, necessitating practical facilitation to level the playing field among member states. It should primarily aim to enhance the effectiveness and impact of EU development cooperation, rather than being an end in itself.

Our analysis reveals a general consensus within the EU and member states regarding the imperative of greater inclusiveness. However, it also pinpoints institutional and on-the-ground obstacles and disincentives hindering progress. Noteworthy practices exist to enhance collaboration inclusively between the EU and member states, presenting opportunities within the new programming cycle of the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) – Global Europe, and the Team Europe Initiatives.