The European Union contributes actively to help developing countries stand on their own two feet. By tackling poverty, boosting local economies and strengthening governance, the EU support millions of people in partner countries across the globe. The EU provides development assistance in a way that secures the long-term future of developing countries which face the rigours of operating in an ever more complex and fast-paced global economy.

The Commission finances most of its development programmes for African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) partner countries through the European Development Fund (EDF). Money from this pot is also spent on supporting the EU’s Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs). The Commission also funds some programmes from the EU’s general budget. Member States contribute to both the EDF and the general budget.

Commission funding for overseas aid is significant: between 2003 and 2007, the ninth EDF provided €15.2 billion to ACP countries. The tenth EDF runs from 2008 to 2013, and is scheduled to give out payments of €22.7 billion.

Funding is flexible and goes where it is needed. For example, in 2005 the Commission concentrated on providing money for health and education, as well as for infrastructure projects and budget support.

Commitments and payments to ACP and OCT countries in 2005  [52 KB] , 2006 (fromEDF  [61 KB] and from the general budget  [27 KB] ) and 2007  [13 KB] .