Representatives of faith-based organisations, European Commission, European External Action Service and European Parliament, economic actors and youth brought into focus the EU–Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific (ACP) partnership.

An open dialogue exchange organised by CEC, the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), Quaker Council for European Affairs and Baha’i International Community on 4 February in Brussels, reflected on how to make sure no one is left behind through sustainable investments and decent jobs when it comes to EU–ACP agreement.

“Although many positive achievements of the EU development programmes and generous financial assistance cannot be put in doubt, concerns have to be raised. The key term in this regard, at least for churches and faith based organisations is people-centered approach,” underlined in opening remarked Rev. Dr Peter Pavlovic, CEC Study Secretary.

The participants discussed trade and investment-oriented approach to the EU-ACP partnership and links between sustainable investments and local socio- economic empowerment. Best practices in this area were shared by faith-based young professionals and entrepreneurs.

The participants also discussed how they can contribute to the EU-ACP negotiations with a balanced representation and as equal stakeholders.

It was suggested that an interaction and a dialogue of policy-makers, local and faith-based actors can bring positive results in efforts for a positive and impactful aim of the EU-ACP negotiations.