The European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM) is an independent ‘think and do tank’ working on international cooperation and development policy in Europe and Africa.

The center has more than 70 staff members from over 25 countries worldwide providing research, advice and practical support to policymakers, advisors and practitioners in Europe, Africa and beyond – in order to make policies work for sustainable and inclusive global development.

The main areas of work include EU external affairs, peace and security, African institutions, migration, food security, economic transformation and economic diplomacy.

Making policies work

Since 1986, we aim to make policies work by:

• sharing relevant, timely and practical policy analysis and information to key audiences in Europe and Africa;
• facilitating policy dialogue amongst global actors in development and international relations;
• providing practical and tailored policy research and independent advice;
• supporting capacity and institutional development for government and non-governmental organisations;
• engaging for the long-term with the policy processes and adopting a long-term perspective to development.

ECDPM at the heart of transformation in international cooperation

Major transitions are under way in the development cooperation landscape and development thinking is entering a new phase. Traditional aid based systems are giving way to new forms of international cooperation. We seek to address global challenges in a holistic way by pursuing common interests in a multipolar world.

Across the globe, a wide range of emerging economies are playing increasingly important roles in areas such as trade, economic development, management of natural resources, peace and security, climate change, migration and food security.

In Europe, institutional structures and external relations are being fundamentally transformed in line with the Treaty of Lisbon. Financial and economic turmoil at home has caused Europe to rethink its approach to development cooperation and cast doubt on Europe’s ability to meet its commitments to finance development.

Africa is on the move, with several countries experiencing record economic growth. But with this growth potential comes the need for better governance to reduce social inequalities, improve social cohesion and to capture the benefits for all its citizens.

Formal and informal actors including governments, regional and international institutions, NGOs, civil society and the private sector all have a part to play in how we shape policy for a more prosperous and equitable world.

We are able to foster change by outlining what is needed and what will work for development. As an independent institution with a practical approach and methodology, ECDPM has been able to establish strong relations of trust and confidence with key European, African and ACP institutions and stakeholders in development and international relations, as well as with the major global institutions. Our work always builds on strong networks and global partnerships.