Timeline: October 2024 – 2025
The ETTG-GIZ-Enabel partnership will explore strategic engagement in fragile global contexts, focusing on development agencies’ approaches to challenging political environments. Through comprehensive research, policy paper development, and high-level policy events, the project aims to critically examine how European implementing agencies can effectively support populations in regions experiencing democratic backsliding, conflict, and systemic shocks. Prioritizing a rights-based, locally-informed approach, the initiative will provide innovative recommendations for maintaining meaningful development interventions while navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, with a special emphasis on the Sahel region.
Project Objectives
- Raise awareness about development challenges in fragile regions
- Position Team Europe as a key player in complex geopolitical settings
- Develop strategies for effective engagement in conflict-affected areas
Key Deliverables
- Comprehensive policy paper on development agency approaches in fragile contexts
- Two high-level policy events:
- Expert roundtable to validate research findings
- Public event to disseminate policy recommendations
Focus Areas
- Humanitarian, development, and peace intervention linkages
- Localizing aid in challenging political environments
- Identifying strategic engagement opportunities in regions with democratic backsliding
Unique Approach
- Participatory, learning-focused research
- Qualitative methods with political economy perspective
- Emphasis on human rights, inclusion, and gender
Priority Regions
- Sahel (primary focus)
- Global fragile contexts experiencing political instability
The project aims to provide innovative, locally-informed strategies for European development agencies working in complex global environments.
