Union for the Mediterranean

Die Türkei ist Mitglied der Mittelmeerunion © Europäische Kommission

The in June 2008 developed partnership “Union for the Mediterranean” (UfM) is intended to breathe new life into the Barcelona process which has existed since 1995.

Participants are the 27 EU member states, 15 South Mediterranean neighbours plus Mauretania and Jordan. Along with the goal of creating a free-trade area, concrete projects include expansion of solar energy and infrastructure in the southern partner countries.

In November 2008 political guidelines and the first institutional arrangements for the partnership were put in place. There is a co-presidency with a northern and a southern partner. The general secretariat, the operational arm of UfM, has its headquarters in Barcelona and comprises a secretary general and five deputies. The Arab League can take part in all meetings as a guest, but has not vote.

Efficient governance and sober allocation of resources are indispensable for the success of UfM. A clear division of tasks between general secretariat and the »senior officials« as central decision-makers must be ensured. All staffing decisions should be taken rapidly in the general secretariat so that there is complete capacity for work to go ahead.

The private sector should be closely involved in initiatives and projects at an early stage. Business- relevant initiatives should be communicated transparently from planning through to tender award in order for interested companies to be able to participate. As the Mediterranean region offers great economic potential the UfM should despite the primarily project-oriented approach also target an improvement of business framework conditions as well as intra- and inter-regional integration.