Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP): stronger partnerships for a stronger neighbourhood

In a joint Communication published today, the European Commission and the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy have unveiled the main lines of the review of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), spelling out the Union’s renewed approach to its Eastern and Southern neighbours. The review follows broad consultations with Member States, partner countries, international organisations, social partners, civil society and academia, and will lead to an ENP which is more flexible and more effective. In addition to mobilising efforts to support inclusive economic and social development and create job opportunities for young people, there will be a new focus on stepping up work with partners countries in the security sector, mainly in the areas of conflict-prevention, counter-terrorism and anti-radicalisation policies. High Representative / Vice President Federica Mogherini said: “A stronger partnership with our neighbours is key for the European Union, while we face many challenges within our borders and beyond. The terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday, but also recent attacks in Lebanon, Egypt, Turkey and Iraq, show once more that we are confronted with threats that are global and have to be tackled by the international community united. We have to build together a safer environment, try to solve the many crises of our common region, support the development and the growth of the poorest areas, and address the root causes of migration“. Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn said: “Our most pressing challenge is the stabilisation of our neighbourhood. Conflicts, terrorism and radicalisation threaten us all. But poverty, corruption and poor governance are also sources of insecurity. That is why we will refocus relations with our partners where necessary on our genuinely shared common interests”. More detail is available on the websites of the EEAS and Commission’s Neighbourhood policy and in both the press release and memo.