Activities of the Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs
Luxembourg is a committed and dedicated actor in the field of development cooperation and humanitarian action. With a substantial financial commitment and a focus on quality partnerships, it actively contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What is Official Development Assistance (ODA)?
According to the definition provided by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) Development Assistance Committee (DAC), "Official Development Assistance" (ODA) is aid provided by states expressly for the purpose of promoting economic development and improving living conditions in developing countries. ODA then refers to the financial flows and resources provided by more affluent countries to foster economic and social development in developing countries. Luxembourg distinguishes itself in this area by allocating 1% of its Gross National Income (GNI) to ODA, placing the country among the top five nations in this field.
Luxembourg's ODA is implemented through various channels:
- Bilateral Development Cooperation: Directly between Luxembourg and the recipient country.
- Multilateral Development Cooperation: Via international organisations.
- Cooperation with NGOs: In partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations.
- Humanitarian Action: Intervention in emergency situations.
Instruments for the Implementation of Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Activities
Projects and interventions by the Luxembourg Development Cooperation are carried out based on a number of agreements with various partners. Among these are:
- Indicative Cooperation Programmes (ICPs)
Luxembourg implements multi-annual bilateral cooperation programmes known as Indicative Cooperation Programmes (ICPs). These programmes target "priority partner countries", mainly in the Sahel region, with targeted interventions in priority sectors such as education, health, and local development.
- Multi-Year Partnership Agreements
At the multilateral level, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation has concluded a series of multi-annual strategic partnership agreements, which ensure guaranteed funding to multilateral partners, such as UN agencies, for a specific period, thereby making Luxembourg a trustworthy international partner.
- Framework Agreements
A framework agreement is a negotiated convention between a non-governmental development organization (NGDO) and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. It is concluded based on a multi-year activity programme submitted by NGDOs, which should reflect a clear and coherent strategy. This strategy must fit within a precisely defined geographical scope, be based on a sectoral approach, or have a thematic or methodological guideline.
International Quality Standards
Luxembourg’s policy in the field of development cooperation and humanitarian action is characterised by a constant and progressive effort, both in quantity and quality, for the benefit of the most disadvantaged populations. It is the expression of an affirmed and confirmed international solidarity and as such constitutes an important vector of the foreign policy of the government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
Four Priority Themes
Within the framework of the 2030 Agenda, the general strategy of the Luxembourg Development Cooperation, "The Road to 2030", revolves around four priority themes:
- Improving access to quality basic social services;
- Socio-economic integration of women and youth;
- Promotion of sustainable and inclusive growth;
- Promotion of inclusive governance.
Three Cross-Cutting Themes
All development cooperation actions by Luxembourg are characterised by a multi-stakeholder approach and the systematic integration of three cross-cutting priorities:
- Human Rights: The respect and promotion of human rights are integrated into all initiatives, whether in health, education, or governance.
- Gender Equality: Gender equality is a key component in all projects.
- Environmental Sustainability: Environmental considerations are taken into account in all interventions, from natural resource management to combating climate change.