Staying engaged as Team Europe in fragile settings

Fragile contexts are vulnerable to a range of risks, including weak state and societal capacities, conflicts, economic distress, and climate events. While fragility increases the likelihood of conflict, most fragile regions are not directly conflict-affected. Fragility is complex and multifaceted, spanning economic, environmental, political, security, societal, and human dimensions. European actors, including the EU and its member states, have attempted to address fragility through humanitarian, development, and peace-building efforts. However, the deteriorating security situation in regions like the Central Sahel and shifting political landscapes have led to a reconsideration of engagement strategies. The lack of clear political guidance and resources makes it difficult for European agencies to effectively navigate these volatile environments.

Recommendations for European actors emphasise the need for better coordination, clearer political objectives, and a deeper understanding of local contexts. Strengthening partnerships with local authorities and civil society organizations is crucial, as is fostering a locally-led development approach. Additionally, improving the Team Europe approach, enhancing financial and human resource strategies, and adapting EU instruments to better address fragility are key. The upcoming EU strategy on fragility and negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework offer a critical opportunity to refine the EU's approach, ensuring it is flexible, coordinated, and capable of addressing the root causes of fragility in these complex settings.

This report was co-developed by the Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammen Arbeit (GIZ), Enabel and the European Think Tank Group (ETTG). Download the report to learn more about recommendations for European engagement!