The Global Gateway strategy aims to strengthen connections between Europe and the world and help partner countries address the digital divide and further develop a sustainable digital economy.
Digital technologies and services are proven enablers of sustainable development and inclusive growth. They can be key to improving lives even in the poorest countries, in particular by empowering women and girls, enhancing democratic governance and transparency, and boosting productivity and job creation.
Connectivity is also about infrastructure and connecting regions and cities. Building a road, a tunnel or a bridge to connect citizens to healthcare, markets, jobs and schools can radically improve the lives and livelihoods of rural communities. These connections will create new opportunities across entire regions. Poor infrastructure hampers a country’s growth and ability to trade in the global economy.
Programmes
ACP-EU Research and Innovation Programme
The ACP-EU Programme to Strengthen Research and Innovation capacity in ACP countries targets public and private stakeholders with a comprehensive package of opportunities.
BELLA - Building the Europe Link to Latin America
The BELLA Programme provides support for the long-term interconnectivity of European and Latin American research and education communities through ‘EllaLink’, a new 6,000 km submarine cable.
Policy and Regulation Initiative for Digital Africa (PRIDA)
The PRIDA programme aims to promote universally accessible and affordable broadband across the continent, unlocking the benefits of internet-based services for all
Smart Development Fund
The aim of the Smart Development Fund is to refine digital solutions to counter COVID-19 challenges in, and with, EU partner countries.
Latest news
Global Gateway: EU, Latin America and the Caribbean lead the charge for a Green and Just Transition
In commemorating Europe Day, the European Union (EU) officially launched its €35-million climate action programme Euroclima in the Caribbean region.
Food crises worsen in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, economic shocks resulting from COVID-19 and weather extremes
The 2023 Global Report on Food Crisis shows that in 2022, around 258 million people across 58 countries faced high levels of acute food insecurity requiring urgent assistance.
Global Gateway: New investments to connect people via universal and meaningful Internet
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the European Commission have joined forces to advance universal and meaningful connectivity and help achieve sustainable digital transformation.