ETTG-GIZ-Enabel Project on Navigating Engagement in Fragile Contexts

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

1. Raise awareness about development challenges in fragile regions
2. Position Team Europe as a key player in complex geopolitical settings
3. Develop strategies for effective engagement in conflict-affected areas

Key Deliverables

1. Comprehensive policy paper on development agency approaches in fragile contexts
2. 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.