Laying the foundation for a solid AU–EU partnership
Ahead of this week’s crucial summit, three organisations advise on achieving consensus about a new continental strategy.
Pretoria, South Africa – The much-anticipated 6th African Union (AU)–European Union (EU) summit in Brussels from 17-18 February will be a milestone in relations between Europe and Africa. As Africa seeks a sustainable path for post-COVID-19 economic recovery and stronger governance and stability, the time is right for a strategy that benefits both partners.
Since September 2021, the European Think Tanks Group (ETTG), the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have collaborated to advise on a new strategy.
The aim of the AU and EU should be ‘to move from an asymmetrical top-down relationship to a more horizontal partnership where both parties negotiate deals on the basis of sound analysis, trust and mutual respect,’ says ETTG Director Geert Laporte.
‘Summits are an inevitable part of the international relations game. But each time they end up in disappointments because expectations were too high or longstanding frustrations and irritants on both sides were not openly addressed.’
The three organisations joined forces to analyse divergences and seek consensus on key issues between the AU and the EU. Drawing on roundtable discussions with experts from Africa and Europe, a series of policy briefs were produced that advise on strengthening the partnership on green transformation and climate change, economic development and trade, participatory governance, peace and security.
More than 70 leading African and European independent experts, knowledge centres and think tanks contributed to the recommendations in the briefs.
In the area of economic development, Africa’s aspirations for industrialisation, job creation, regional integration and inclusive green transformation agendas need to be supported as a global public good.
On security and governance, the AU has made progress towards financial autonomy with the creation of the AU Peace Fund. However, it continues to rely on external partners such as the EU, including through the newly created European Peace Facility.
AU–EU cooperation can add value in managing fair transitions towards green economies and clean energy in line with the Paris Agreement, Africa’s growing population and the increasing need for decent jobs and social inclusion.
The policy briefs will contribute to a volume that assesses the EU–AU summit results.
For further information and interviews, contact:
Ottilia Anna Maunganidze, ISS: [email protected], +27 12 346 9500
Geert Laporte, ETTG: [email protected]; +31 43 350 29 00
Jide Okeke, UNDP: [email protected]
