The EU Foreign Affairs chief unveiled her proposals for the establishment of the EU’s new diplomatic service on 25 March. The European External Action Service (EEAS) is being established as a result of the Lisbon Treaty. Its objective will be to develop a more consistent and effective European foreign policy.

Under the proposal Ashton, and her diplomatic service, would be in charge of the EU’s multi billion development budget, controlling the strategic overview, and use of the funds. The European Commission, which has up until now managed the use of the budget, would only be charged with implementation.

MEPs were quick to criticize the proposals saying that they were “a recipe for incoherence”. Civil society organizations have also criticized the proposals. Social Watch, a global network of civil society organizations said it took exception to the deal between the Commission and the High Representative to incorporate development cooperation into the new foreign service.

“Public resources earmarked in the budget for poverty eradication in poor countries will be spent for the promotion of Europe’s strategic interests in foreign policy and security” said Social Watch’s Coordinator Roberto Bissio. Professor Edward Oyugi of the Social Development Network in Kenya added that “his sounds like a move to undermine the democratic integrity of the European Union.”

Eurostep has questioned the legitimacy of the proposals. “It goes against the spirit and the letter of the Lisbon Treaty which puts development co-operation clearly under Commission responsibility with Parliamentary oversight”.

Sources:

• EUobserver
• DevWire.eu
• Eurostep

• EU to kick off citizens' initiative with tougher rules
• Making Women’s equality a key target of the EU’s “Europe 2020” strategy