Policies of the European Union with its Mediterranean Partners for the Management and Use of Natural and Renewable Resources: Towards Green Growth in the Mediterranean

Selvitys 25-04-2014

After drawing up an inventory of the energy and water resources of the South and East Mediterranean Countries (SEMCs) and presenting their political, economic and social challenges, this report takes stock of the European neighbourhood policies conducted following the Arab revolutions in these countries and offers a forward-looking vision in this area for the years to come. Despite some success the initiatives led by the European Union in respect of its neighbourhood policy with the SEMCs in the area of the management of natural resources are not very effective owing to the lack of a shared vision between the countries in the region and a lack of strong political will on the part of the European Union. However, sustainable management of the energy potential and natural resources of the SEMCs could become the cornerstone of inclusive green growth in these countries. A paradigm shift in Euro-Mediterranean relations therefore needs to take place in order to respond to the desire for economic and social change expressed by the populations following the 'Arab Spring'. Two aspects in particular must be addressed: support for greater energy efficiency and integrated management of natural resources, particularly water resources.