The Council today adopted conclusions on addressing inequality in partner countries.
Inequality nowdays
The Council notes that many partner countries remain confronted with levels of inequality that are higher than they were 30 years ago and which threaten the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Inequality is a major brake on the eradication of poverty and sustainable economic growth and can threaten democracy, social cohesion and inclusion, resilience and stability as well as exacerbate environmental degradation and climate change.
The conclusions also acknowledge the multidimensional nature of inequality, which encompasses economic, social, political and environmental aspects and requires urgent attention.
The Council reaffirms that tackling inequality is an internal and external priority for the European Union and that equality and solidarity are among the values and principles guiding the European Union and its external action.
Knowledge is key
The Council further stresses the need to improve data and knowledge, including by collecting disaggregated data, including with regard to women, children and young people, as well as
persons with disabilities and other people living in marginalised communities and vulnerable situations, and to improve related institutional capacity.
The Council considers that the EU and Member States should accelerate efforts to implement EU measures to support the reduction of inequality in partner countries, and reflect these
considerations in their respective development cooperation policies.
More information
Read the full text of the Council conclusions on addressing inequality in partner countries
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