In this strategy paper, we set out ACT Alliance EU’s purpose, vision and long-term objectives for 2022 and beyond. Our focus is on locally-led, sustainable development.
Overview
Who we are and what we aim for
ACT Alliance EU, a network of European church-based humanitarian and development agencies, aims to influence EU policies for sustainable benefits to people affected by poverty globally. Part of the global ACT Alliance, it collaborates across continents for impactful advocacy at the EU and UN. Their vision is for dignified lives in just societies, with a long-term impact on EU policies towards rights-based, equitable, and people-centred approaches in humanitarian aid and development cooperation.
What sets us apart
ACT Alliance EU distinguishes itself by melding policy influence in Brussels with grassroots insights and leveraging ACT Alliance’s reach to UN and regional bodies like the African Union. With over 30 years of evidence-based advocacy, diverse member perspectives, and global partnerships, it fosters local ownership in humanitarian and development efforts while emphasizing faith-sensitive approaches for effective and sustainable outcomes.
Global Trends
We find ourselves in a global context that is marked by shifting power dynamics, rising nationalism, environmental emergencies, and humanitarian challenges. Around the world, we’re seeing a backlash against gender equality and human rights. Climate change is intensifying, exacerbating conflicts and displacement. Covid-19 has worsened inequalities, hindering the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Ongoing conflicts such as the one in Ukraine threaten further instability.
European external action policies and funding
At its inception, the European Commission of Ursula von der Leyen formulated bold aspirational and inspiring promises. These included a European Green Deal and climate neutrality by 2050; making the 2020s Europe’s Digital Decade; a stronger, geopolitical and more assertive Europe, effective in defending its interests, protecting its citizens and its values while standing up for an open, rules-based multilateral order.
The EU aims to promote values like human rights and gender equality globally. However, it faces many challenges. These include coordinating member states’ divergent views and balancing strategic policies with sustainable development objectives. The EU’s new financial instrument prioritises partnerships with neighbouring regions and Africa, emphasising financial investments and blending funds. Concerns within the NGO community revolve around how to maintain diversity and local engagement amidst administrative pressures.
Development policy and practice
ACT Alliance EU aims to:
- Hold the EU responsible and accountable as a global actor and a development partner
- Enhance EU and member state support for sustainable and transformative social, economic and environmental changes, led by local actors and communities
Humanitarian policy and practice
ACT Alliance EU provides incisive and well-developed methodologies and evidence from long-term experience in partnering with and fostering the leadership of in-country civil society, emergent community-based groups and faith-based actors.