Event Overview
On March 7, 2023, the European Parliament hosted a significant panel discussion organised by ACT Alliance EU, focusing on the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy from the perspective of African religious and faith-based organisations (FBOs) and local communities. The event, chaired by Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) Saskia Bricmont and Carlos Zorrinho, aimed to foster an Africa-EU partnership built on equality and mutual respect.
Key Discussions
The panel acknowledged the European Union’s commitment to strengthening African local producers, markets, and value chains. However, they emphasised that realising the Global Gateway’s values of democracy, transparency, and human rights demands confronting tough issues that contribute to regional imbalances and injustices. Concerns were raised about trade imbalances, the exploitation of natural resources, and the challenges faced by local producers due to competition with foreign entities, including those from the EU.
The dialogue also touched upon the agricultural sector’s power disparities, advocating for a shift towards sustainable practices that honour local needs and promote food sovereignty. The necessity for private sector engagement that supports, rather than undermines, local communities was a recurring theme, with calls for economic policies that foster African countries’ industrialisation, resilience, and autonomy.
Path to Partnership
The conversation critiqued the current economic partnership models, suggesting a reevaluation of Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) to ensure they align with Africa’s regional integration ambitions. The need for transparency, accountability, and a community-focused approach in the Global Gateway strategy was underscored, alongside a call to re-examine the prevailing neoliberal capitalist framework.
Noteworthy contributions came from various experts, including Chiara Adamo from DG International Partnerships (DG INTPA) and Ivano Casella from DG Trade, alongside representatives from African civil society and faith-based organisations. They collectively highlighted the importance of engaging with African stakeholders to craft investments that genuinely benefit the continent’s local communities and ecosystems.
Reflective Insights
The event also featured poignant reflections on the effectiveness of international aid, questioning the impact of numerous non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in African communities. This introspection prompted a broader discussion on the need for a profound rethinking of international cooperation models, emphasising justice, equity, and genuine partnership.
The panel, representing a broad spectrum of voices, underscored the urgency of redefining the Africa-EU relationship into one that truly reflects a partnership of equals, advocating for policies that are not only beneficial but also just and sustainable.
Read the key takeaways from the Global Gateway event.
