International Development Cooperation of the European DAC Members in the Context of the Rise of the Far-Right Parties

Abstract

This paper examines how the rise of the Far-Right Parties has affected the aid policies of the OECD/DAC members in Europe. Countries like the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Germany and France have or have announced cuts in aid budgets. Sweden announced its new aid policy framework, strengthening linkages between aid, trade and migration policies. The Swedish government also announced that it will terminate its major funding scheme for Swedish CSOs. The Dutch and German governments will significantly cut funding for CSOs. The paper warns that aid budget cuts and policy changes in large donors such as Germany and traditionally like-minded donors such as the Netherlands and Sweden may change the whole aid landscape. The paper also addresses restoring support for international cooperation and solidarity as a vital challenge for CSOs.