In recent years, the Spanish Cooperation system has undergone a transformation placing it at the forefront of international cooperation policies. This article explores the main developments in Spanish Cooperation and how it is adapting to today's global challenges.
1. New Law on Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity
One of the most significant changes is the new Law on Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity, adopted in 2023. This law replaces the previous regulation, in force since 1998, and responds to the need to update policies in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda. The new legislation aims to make cooperation more inclusive, efficient and aligned with global challenges such as climate change, gender equality and digitalisation.
This law strengthens Spain's commitment to official development assistance (ODA), increasing the resources made available for cooperation to 0.7% of Gross National Product (GNP) by 2030. It also places special emphasis on transparency and accountability, ensuring that funds are used effectively.
2. The Master Plan as a compass for Spanish Cooperation
The first Master Plan to embrace this Law sets out the objectives and priorities for the 2024-2027 period, based on a human rights approach and the promotion of inclusive and sustainable development; and with the brand mark of being a feminist cooperation, placing the empowerment and rights of women and girls, the fight against violence and discrimination, and the closing of structural gaps and inequalities at the centre of international action.
Spain strengthens its cooperation with West Africa and the Sahel, and maintains its technical and financial commitment to Latin America and the Caribbean, the Arab world, and Sub-Saharan Africa, in the latter region with an emphasis on creating training and employment opportunities for young people.
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3. Transformation from the inside out: The Statute on Aid Workers and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation
To meet these ambitious challenges effectively, the Law provides for a new Statute on Aid Workers, which has already been approved, updating the protection of the rights of aid workers, recognising the value of their professional performance in the labour, social and family spheres.
The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) has been a key player in this renewal process. Over the last year, the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation has strengthened its operational capacities and expanded its intervention areas, with a more multidimensional approach. The agency's new priorities include feminist cooperation, aimed at gender equality and women's empowerment, as well as the fight against climate change in the most vulnerable countries.
The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation has also promoted the digitalisation of cooperation, using new technologies to improve the efficiency of projects and facilitate communication between the actors involved, from NGOs to local governments.
4. Increased Humanitarian Cooperation
In response to growing humanitarian crises, such as the war in Ukraine or natural disasters in various regions of the world, Spanish Cooperation has intensified its humanitarian approach. Spain has allocated more resources to emergency assistance, focusing on the provision of food and health aid and shelter for populations affected by conflicts and disasters.
The Spanish Cooperation Humanitarian Action Strategy 2019-2026 establishes a fast and flexible framework for action, allowing Spain to respond quickly and effectively to emerging crises. The Strategy prioritises assistance for the most vulnerable victims, such as women, children and refugees, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need.
5. Alignment with the 2030 Agenda
Another key part of the new Spanish Cooperation is its full alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. All cooperation programmes and projects are designed to help achieve these goals, with a special focus on no poverty (SDG 1), quality education (SDG 4), climate action (SDG 13) and reduced inequalities (SDG 10).
Spain has consolidated its leadership in the field of green cooperation, supporting projects that promote environmental sustainability, energy transition and sustainable management of natural resources, especially in African and Latin American countries.
As a result of the achievements of our cooperation system, the IV International Conference on Financing for Development will be held in Seville in 2025, demonstrating Spain's role in this area.
Conclusion
Spanish Cooperation is undergoing a process of major transformation, adapting to new global realities and consolidating its role as a leader in promoting sustainable and inclusive development. With the new Cooperation Law, the new Master Plan, the strengthening of the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, and the Statute on Aid Workers, Spain is better prepared to face future challenges and to continue to be a reliable partner in the fight for a fairer and more equitable world.
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Minister Albares presents the Master Plan for Spanish Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity 2024-2027.