Working Better Together in a Team Europe Approach

• Most joint implementation starts at the technical and operational level, as it is usually centred around a sector-specific issue or a specific programme. It therefore naturally tends to involve programme managers of actors following a Team Europe approach in the lead. However, it is important to link up coordination with the mechanisms in place under the joint programming and Team Europe Initiative processes, especially if joint policy and political-level dialogue is required⁷⁶.
• Joint implementation can include EFSD+ and UIF operations, implemented through the EIB, the EBRD, and other pillar assessed development finance institutions. This joint endeavour helps to strengthen the collective impact through strategic alignment, coherent planning, and coordinated implementation. By using the full EFSD+ and UIF toolbox (guarantees, blending and technical assistance), and leveraging the comparative advantages of each actor — including the private sector — the Team Europe approach enhances the effectiveness, visibility, and sustainability of EU-supported initiatives. Structured upstream coordination and exchange with financial institutions is key to identifying priority sectors for investments and ensuring that Team Europe acts as a unified and consistent partner in partner countries.
• Joint implementation can include non-public actors and partners in a Team Europe approach (e.g. the private sector, civil society, and academia) that share European objectives and values, as well as the United Nations, other international and regional organisations and financial institutions.
• In fragile and conflict-affected places hosting displaced populations and refugees, the heads of DG ECHO’s country or regional offices should be involved to increase the opportunities for progress toward shared policy objectives.

76 See relevant chapters on JP and TEI management in this guidance.