On the 15th anniversary of the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights, several events will focus particular attention on the horizontal issues of democracy, better governance, domestic accountability and human rights. The European Parliament will invite development practitioners to look ahead to development issues affecting the next generation and children’s rights in development policy.

The panel on the Lisbon Treaty will discuss the evolution of the different components of EU external action and, among other issues, the role of the EU in supporting Democratic Governance. A session will be held on better service delivery through improved governance.

Through a seminar on domestic accountability, attention will be given to the strengthening of the accountability of state systems to their citizens with a view to improving governance in developing countries in a sustainable manner. Discussions on how to combat poverty through better gender equality will be held, as will a debate on essential issues such as the role of local authorities. Another panel will look ahead to children’s rights in development policy. The specific situation of children working in the cacao industry will be illustrated in a seminar focusing on the exchange of best practice.