We believe the Global Challenges programme of the new Global Europe instrument should play
a critical role in stepping up the EU’s global leadership in addressing the interlinked challenges
the world is facing, such as water scarcity, biodiversity loss, deforestation and climate change,
which contribute to growing inequalities and instability around the globe. These challenges have
been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated ongoing economic crisis.
The emergence of diseases of animal origin like the COVID-19, that spill over from wildlife to
humans, provides a stark demonstration of the dramatic societal and economic costs that can
result from the destruction of nature.

Environmental degradation and climate change are undermining hard-won development gains
by causing staggering economic costs and losses and millions of premature deaths annually. It
is impeding progress towards ending poverty and hunger, reducing inequalities and promoting
sustainable economic growth and inclusive societies. This burden is felt by everyone, but
disproportionately by the poor and vulnerable. Not tackling such challenges holistically
undermines the benefits of EU international cooperation.

We welcome the compromise on the long-term EU budget for the period 2021-2027, adopted on
the 10th November 2020, which includes an increased 30% climate action target for the Global
Europe instrument, and a target of 7.5% of overall annual Multiannual Financial Framework
(MFF) spending to be dedicated to biodiversity objectives from 2024, and 10% from 2026.