Towards an EU response to situations of fragility

This Communication proposes a strategy for an agreed and coordinated European Union (EU) response to fragile situations in developing countries. The strategy is based on better use of the various instruments at the disposal of the EU at the political, diplomatic, humanitarian, development and security levels. In fact, a policy framework already exists for addressing the different dimensions of fragility. The European Consensus on Development provides guidance on a comprehensive response to fragility. It is part of a broader external action framework which needs to be comprehensively activated, for the Union to address fragility in a timely and coherent fashion. This includes, the European Security Strategy, the EU Programme for Prevention of Violent Conflict, the LRRD strategic framework, the Consensus on Humanitarian Aid and the EU approach to governance and development. Lessons learned from EC experience in situations of fragility form the basis of this Communication. It also integrates the outcome of an open debate with key civil society organisations and an informal meeting of EU Ministers of Development in September 2007.

 European Commission - October 2007