Posted on July, 14 2021

This recommendation paper by leading global environmental NGOs seeks to assist the EU in its consultation processes with Civil Society Organizations on the new EU Global Challenges thematic programme.

The Global Challenges programme is one of the four thematic programmes proposed under the NDICI-Global Europe regulation, which went into force in June 2021 [1]. The thematic programme aims to strengthen the EU as a global actor and support universal global agendas and initiatives.

The joint NGO paper highlights key opportunities for the EU to support the delivery of global commitments to climate and biodiversity, the Paris Agreement, the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the upcoming Global Biodiversity Framework.

Summary of recommendations for inclusion in the Global Challenges programme:
 

• Increase resources for the implementation of the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework towards partner countries, as well as relevant capacity building and technical and scientific cooperation, technology transfer and innovation.
• Support global efforts to improve the protection and sustainable management of marine environments worldwide
• Support a global approach to fighting wildlife crime by tackling the issue at different levels
• Make available sufficient resources to ensure partner countries get the right level of support for compliance to new EU deforestation-free requirements and engage in a transition towards more sustainable land use
• Make climate adaptation centrepiece, coupled with support for trans-regional adaptation programmes, integrating disaster risk reduction, and a particular focus on least developed countries and small island developing states
• Focus on encouraging the rapid shift from fossil fuel-based energy sources,with emphasis on just transition and tackling energy access inequality.
• Support the implementation of global and national transitions to sustainable and equitable food systems and support the delivery of solutions generated by the UN Food Systems Summit process

Notes to editors

[1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2021/06/09/ndici-global-europe-final-green-light-for-the-new-financial-instrument-to-support-the-eu-s-external-action/