Strategy for cooperation with the Philippines (2007-2013)

The reduction of poverty and economic development are at the heart of the partnership between the European Union and the Philippines. EU intervention should also contribute to improving access to basic services, economic, social and political reforms, as well as the stability of the country.

ACT

The European Commission - Philippines Strategy Paper 2007-2013.

SUMMARY

The partnership between the European Union (EU) and the Philippines is focused on reducing poverty and the equitable distribution of wealth. Although the country has reached an intermediate level of development, a large proportion of its population lives below the poverty threshold. This situation is partly explained by a high level of demographic growth and a low level of economic growth.

Areas for cooperation

This Strategy should be implemented according to priority actions in order to:

• develop a policy to reduce poverty and meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs);
• promote economic reforms and good public governance;
• organise basic social services, in particular to improve access to health care and education.

Furthermore, the partnership should stimulate trade and investment, and reinforce the positive impact of commercial growth on the country’s level of development.

Cross-cutting issues

Generally, cooperation actions should improve governance and human rights, gender equality, the rights of children and minorities, as well as the protection of the environment, conflict prevention and the stability of the country.

Thematic regional programmes

The Philippines participate in several regional cooperation schemes, such as the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) for policy dialogue.

These bodies provide a framework for cooperation and dialogue as regards democracy and human rights, migration, the environment, social policy and exchanges between universities.

Last updated: 12.07.2011