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Development policy proposals EU Relations with Kiribati
Kiribati is a small-island nation located in the central Pacific made up of 32 atolls spread over 3.5 million km² with a small population. The country is divided into three island groups: the Gilbert Islands (from where the name Kiribati comes), Phoenix Islands and Line Islands.
The country faces various challenges, such as job creation and diversification and an underdeveloped private sector. More critically, climate change, rising sea levels and other natural disasters pose a great threat to the country.
Key issues in EU-Kiribati relations
The EU is a key source of aid for Kiribati and an emphasis is placed on improving life in the outer islands. Following a strong population shift to the main island of Tarawa, the outer islands remain poorer and their inhabitants still live a subsistence lifestyle. The Kiribati economy, dependent on fishing, is vulnerable to external shocks and work is being done to better stabilise and diversify its economy.
With the launch of the 10th European Development Fund, focus is placed on the environment, which is important for an island nation easily affected by environmental changes.
In October 2007 a new Country Strategy Paper was signed for 2008–13. This provides a budget € 13.8 M, of which € 10.8 M is targeted at the water and energy sectors.
Improving the supply and quality of basic services is a priority across the whole country. Special attention is being paid to the outer islands where access to clean water and electricity is often limited. Water resource management is given particular attention due to the uncertainty of continued clean water supplies.
The benefits of growth and the wealth of the fishing industry need to be spread more equally across the country. An emphasis is placed on renewable and sustainable energy sources and away from fossil fuels.
Climate change is another key area of concern and cooperation for the EU and Kiribati. Kiribati is composed of low-lying islands that are particularly vulnerable to rising ocean levels and natural disasters. Areas of particular concern include the deterioration of coastal zones, coral reef, fisheries and clean ground water.
Latest update: 26-03-2008
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