Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid

EU policy on development co-operation complements the development policies pursued by member states. Its main aims are the sustainable economic and social development of developing countries, with the primary objective of the reduction and, in the long term, the eradication of poverty.

At the same time, EU policy on development co-operation is aimed at reinforcing democracy and the rule of law, and promoting respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific states have a special place in EU development cooperation.

The Council adopts the measures relating to development policy together with the European Parliament in the ordinary legislative procedure. The Council is involved in top-level planning for multiannual cooperation programmes with developing countries or thematic programmes, while annual strategies are devised by the Commission.

See also:

EU policy on development cooperation (European Commission)

The Treaty of Lisbon introduced a specific legal base for humanitarian aid. This provision places the emphasis on the application of the principles of international law and on impartiality, neutrality and non-discrimination. It also envisages the creation of a European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps.

The aim of the EU's humanitarian aid operations is to provide ad hoc assistance and relief and protection for people in third countries who are victims of natural or man-made disasters, in order to meet the humanitarian needs resulting from these situations.

See also:

EU's humanitarian aid (European Commission)