When is foreign policy not foreign policy? Cotonou, CFSP and external relations with the developing world

Abstract

Introduction: This paper attempts to discuss the EU’s external relations with the Developing World within the context of the Cotonou Agreement and the CFSP. While CFSP and Cotonou operate formally under distinct and autonomous mechanisms, it is argued here that despite this pillarisation of policy spheres and the narrow definition of EU foreign affairs, development policy forms a core element in EU foreign policy and is linked, consequently, to a broader understanding of CFSP. The paper falls into two parts: one locating the context within which EU development policy might be discussed; the other discussing the actual development policy reforms since 2000. Part one addresses a series of questions. First, the appropriate theoretical context for discussing EU development policy is debated. Second, the linkages between development policy and CFSP are examined. And third, the very basis of an EU development policy is considered in relation to the principle of subsidiarity. Part two examines the motivations behind the reform of EU development policy, discusses the central policy innovations proposed, and concludes by exploring the potential areas of future policy conflict that might arise. Undoubtedly, these are ambitious objectives in such a limited space: however, only by marrying the wider perspectives of CFSP, integration and subsidiarity with an empirical analysis of the Cotonou Agreement, can the topic be adequately contextualized. As the paper concludes, development policy does not stand in splendid isolation, but is part of the network of integration processes that shape EU policy and decision-making. Show more