Conflict prevention and the EU

From rhetoric to reality

Armed conflict has become one of the most prevalent causes of poverty in many parts of the world, in particular the regions of Sub-Saharan Africa. Conflict denies populations their basic human rights and at a macro level undermines the development prospects of states through a decline in state capacity, a shrinking revenue base and diversion of funds to the security sector. Conflict and poverty frequently become self-reinforcing whereby the existence of poverty can present a key conflict risk.

The European Union (EU) recognises the linkages between underdevelopment and conflict and is one of the leading international bodies affirming the importance of and enhancing capacity for peace building and conflict prevention. The EU was itself founded as an institution for preventing future violent conflict in Europe. Part of the EU's potential to play a significant role in this field is the increasing range of measures at its disposal such as development assistance, diplomacy and foreign policy, human rights policy, trade policy, social policy and an emerging security and defence policy.

This paper aims to outline the policy commitments and approach to conflict prevention made by the EU, the progress made against those commitments and the challenges and obstacles facing implementation. It concludes with some concrete recommendations on how the EU might more effectively implement conflict prevention policies in the context of the on-going 'Convention of the Future of Europe', the forthcoming Inter-Governmental Conference and the planned re-drafting of the EU Treaty.