In June 2009, European citizens will elect their representatives to the European Parliament for the 2009-2014 term.In a recent Manifesto, Concord calls on the future parliamentarians to take close regard to essential EU development policy objectives namely 1) sustainable development, 2) more and better aid and 3) democratic accountability.
1) In reference to the objective of sustainable development CONCORD urges the Parliament to push forward key targets of climate justice, which means to effectively slow down climate change while also helping developing countries to cover cost of adaptation. Furthermore commitments regarding gender equality need to be implemented and covered financially. Other issues broad to attention are a responsible Economic and Trade Policy, a responsible Food and Agricultural Policy, a Decent Work Agenda, sustainable Finance for Development, issues regarding migration as well as social and human development.
2) Concerning the target of more and better aid CONCORD urges the MEPs to ensure that EU aid targets are met (see Concords Aid Report: "No time to waste"). Furthermore commitments to democratic ownership, accountability and transparency should be strengthened as well as the respect for human and social rights which are absent in the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness.
3) In the light of the policy goal of democratic accountability EU Parliamentarians should ensure the close participation of civil society in EU decision-making. Additionally CONCORD calls on the Parliament to issue a report on Development Education which is seen as essential to a strong, informed and actively engaged citizenry. Regarding future institutional reforms, as enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty, Parliamentarians should ensure that the post of an Commissioner for Development will not be sacrificed and remains an crucial voice in the College of the EU Commission.
See the Euforic newsfeed on Civil Society; and the Concord newsfeed