Implementation of the Agenda for Action on democracy support in the EU’s external relations

This Joint Report, prepared by the High Representative and the Commission, responds to a 10 December 2010 Council request for regular updates on democracy support initiatives in the pilot countries.

This report examines:
- implementation of the Agenda for Action in pilot countries and all regions;
- policy responses between December 2010 and early 2012; and
- coherence and effectiveness in the EU’s democracy support.

The universal desire people have to govern themselves was evident throughout 2011. Developments in Burma, North Africa and the Middle East (the "Arab Spring"), and the united position of the international community to the stand-off in the Ivory Coast underlined the yearning people have to determine the course of their own lives.

The EU’s swift reaction to these events highlighted the principles adopted in the Council conclusions on Democracy Support in the EU’s External Relations 2009, namely:
- a consistent and efficient use of all instruments at the EU’s disposal;
- a differentiated, country-based approach; and
- the importance of dialogue, partnership, and inclusion of all stakeholders with a view to true country ownership.

As a result, new policy developments were initiated, starting in the Neighbourhood. These policy developments strengthen the EU’s comprehensive approach to democracy support; add new elements to the principles laid down in the 2009 Council conclusions, and increase funding.