The Africa-Europe Foundation (AEF) is calling for proposals to establish a multiannual research partnership from July 2024 to December 2025. This initiative seeks to foster collaboration between African and European research organizations and aims to provide a platform for deep diving into priority thematic areas within the Africa-Europe Partnership.
Context and Background
The call for proposals is informed by the “State of Africa-Europe Report 2024,” which outlines the progress and challenges in the existing Africa-Europe Partnership. The report reviews policy and financial commitments between the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU), serving as a benchmarking exercise for the Africa-Europe relationship.
Research Priorities
The call focuses on three key areas derived from the “State of Africa-Europe Report 2024”:
- Sustainable Finance: Research in this area will focus on the financial mechanisms and strategies that support sustainable development across both continents. It will assess investment models and frameworks that promote environmental sustainability and equitable economic growth.
- Climate and Development: This chapter emphasizes the intersection of climate change and development policies. Research will explore innovative approaches to climate resilience, sustainable development, and the transition towards green economies.
- Science, Education, and Culture: This area highlights the role of science, education, and cultural exchanges in strengthening ties between Africa and Europe. Research will examine initiatives that promote knowledge transfer, educational partnerships, and cultural dialogues.
Establishing the Africa-Europe Research Consortium
The call aims to create the “Africa-Europe Research Consortium,” a collaborative network of research organizations from both continents, including think tanks, universities, CSOs/NGOs, and social enterprises. The consortium will implement AEF’s research program through a cooperative process, generating evidence-based insights to inform and enhance the Africa-Europe Partnership.
Objectives and Outcomes
The primary goal of the research program is to identify obstacles and opportunities within the Africa-Europe Partnership. By generating robust knowledge products, the program will support the development and implementation of policies that advance mutual interests.
Key objectives include:
- Providing evidence to guide the implementation of AU-EU commitments.
- Identifying strategic topics with potential for win-win partnerships.
- Supporting policy monitoring and advocacy efforts.
- Leveraging AEF’s role as a knowledge organization to produce insights from and for both continents.
Timeline and Application
The research partnership will span 18 months, from July 2024 to December 2025. The program will operate under an agreed work plan with periodic reviews to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness.
Interested organizations must submit their applications by 23rd May 2024 at specified times in Brussels and Addis Ababa. Applications should be sent to Research@AfricaEuropeFoundation.org.
For more information and to apply please visit: Call for Proposals 2024: Research | Africa-Europe Foundation (africaeuropefoundation.org)https://www.africaeuropefoundation.org/areas-of-action/call-for-proposals-2024:-research/
Conclusion
This call represents an opportunity for African and European research organizations to contribute to shaping the future of the Africa-Europe Partnership. By focusing on priority areas and fostering collaborative research, the initiative aims to generate impactful outcomes that benefit both continents and strengthen their longstanding ties.
The African Research (AR) Index is a comprehensive scholarly directory and database focused explicitly on journal publishers that publish and disseminate African research.
