The EU’s Global Gateway : from aid to partnership?

Abstract

Announced in the State of the Union speech by Ursula von der Leyen in September 2021, the EU “Global Gateway” is seen as Europe’s response to large-scale strategies such as China’s Belt and Road initiative. The Global Gateway promises a lot, including the mobilisation of 300 billion euros in the coming years, mostly by reorienting existing EU budget lines, but also leveraging private investment and boosting cooperation with Member States in so-called “Team Europe” initiatives. Accordingly, the Global Gateway will need support from institutions at all levels of government, as well as stakeholders in Europe and in partner countries. It will also need to thrive in a world characterised by rising political tensions, and new opportunities to join forces with like-minded countries to promote sustainable development and respect for fundamental rights. What are the preconditions for the Global Gateway to succeed? Should the EU seek to replicate its “twin transition” strategy around the world, or should it be more pragmatic in seizing existing opportunities, partnering with powerful players when needed? Under what conditions will the private sector join forces with the EU in infrastructure projects around the world?