The European Commission and the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy have unveiled today the main lines of the review of the European Neighborhood Policy (ENP), spelling out the Union’s renewed approach to its eastern and southern neighbors. The review follows broad consultations with Member States, partner countries, international organizations, social partners, civil society and academia, IPN reports, quoting a press release of the European Commission.
“A stronger partnership with our neighbors 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. This is precisely the purpose of the current review of the ENP which will promote our common values and interests, and will also engage partners in increased cooperation in security matters,” said High Representative and European Commission Vice President Federica Mogherini.
“Our most pressing challenge is the stabilization of our neighborhood. Conflicts, terrorism and radicalization 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. In particular economic development, with a major focus on youth employment and skills will be key,” added Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn.
The ENP will take stabilization as its main political priority in this mandate. Differentiation and greater mutual ownership will be further key elements of the new ENP, recognizing that not all partners aspire to comply with EU rules and standards, and reflecting the wishes of each country concerning the nature and scope of its partnership with the EU. The EU will uphold and continue to promote universal values through the ENP, seeking more effective ways to promote democracy, human rights, fundamental freedoms and rule of law. The new ENP will mobilize efforts to support inclusive economic and social development; creating job opportunities for youth will be among key measures of economic stabilization. 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-radicalization policies.
The new ENP will seek to deploy the available financial resources in a more flexible manner, so that the EU can react more swiftly to new challenges in the neighbourhood. Stronger engagement with civil society, social partners and with youth, is foreseen.
The European Neighbourhood Policy was launched in 2004, to help the EU support and foster stability, security and prosperity in the countries closest to its borders.
