While Official Development Aid (ODA) figures are reportedly at record highs, the AidWatch 2023 report shows how the EU and its Member States have managed once again to claim billions as aid that did not meet the most basic criteria to qualify as ODA.
2021 should have been the year to double down on ODA to counter compounding global challenges. Instead, 1 euro in every 6 from EU and Member States’ ODA budgets did not even go towards those left furthest behind.
Inequality is growing, democracy is eroding, and acute distress is increasing, but at the same time people’s awareness and inclusion are increasing. What is needed now is dialogue, critical thinking and cooperation.
CONCORD deplores Russia’s recent declaration of war on Ukraine and its unjustified attacks on Ukraine’s territory. CONCORD calls on Russia to withdraw its military forces from Ukraine and resort to peaceful dialogue to resolve any issues it may have.
We are saddened by the sudden departure of a generous leader who fought hard for the European Union and was a true friend to civil society. May he rest in peace.
Coronavirus is dominating the headlines. Not only is the economy slowing down, but so are most of the policy activities in Brussels. Starting from mid-March, the majority of meetings and events have been either cancelled or moved online.
On Sunday, March 11, a tragic plane crash took the lives of all 157 passengers travelling to Nairobi. Among the victims was Paolo Dieci, a most dedicated and passionate advocate for international cooperation.
CONCORD reacts to the ongoing reports in the media of sexual exploitation and abuse by staff employed by NGOs in partner countries.
Press Reaction – The AU EU Summit should have been a great opportunity for young people from Africa and the EU to exchange and listen to each other’s views. Scheduled to speak, and with speeches prepared, as part of the peace, security, and governance section of the Summit today, instead their contribution was ruled out on the grounds of “rules of procedure” after the objections of a number of delegations. Civil Society reacted to the situation.
CONCORD in the news: This article by Isabelle Brachet, CONCORD expert on Sustainable Development and EU Policy advisor at ActionAid, on the role of the private sector in Development has been initially published in Euractiv. To ensure business enterprises play their role in generating more and better jobs and contribute to the transition towards a green and sustainable economic model in the Global South, the EU needs to adopt in-depth reforms.