Explanatory Memorandum to COM(2012)378 - Conclusion of the Food Assistance Convention

Please note

This page contains a limited version of this dossier in the EU Monitor.

dossier COM(2012)378 - Conclusion of the Food Assistance Convention.
source COM(2012)378 EN
date 06-07-2012
1) Background

The Food Aid Convention (FAC 1999) is a multilateral agreement which came originally into effect in the 1960s as an instrument for a coordinated and acceptable disposal of agricultural surpluses from developed countries to developing countries in need. The FAC 1999 was initially to remain in force until 30 June 2002 and has been extended five times, with the latest extension running until 30 June 2012.

On 14 December 2010, the Parties to the FAC 1999 - the USA, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Australia and the EU - agreed to negotiate a new convention that would aim at providing appropriate and effective food assistance to vulnerable populations, based on identified needs.

On the basis of the recommendation submitted by the Commission to the Council, the Council authorised the Commission to open negotiations for a new Food Assistance Convention.

On 25 April 2012 the negotiations were successfully completed.

The Commission presented on xxx a proposal for a Council Decision on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Food Assistance Convention, subject to its conclusion at a later date.

2) Nature of the Food Assistance Convention (FAC 2012)

The FAC 2012 reflects a modernised approach to food assistance. It aims at responding to food and nutrition needs of vulnerable populations in an effective and efficient manner, going beyond the mere provision of food aid, in keeping with the EU's Humanitarian Food Assistance Policy). Other key elements are improved access to and consumption of adequate, safe and nutritious food on the basis of proper needs analysis, an approach based on (humanitarian) principles and full respect for WTO obligations. The Convention will be implemented by means of annual commitments in kind or in cash to be made by Parties.

The FAC 2012 will enter into force on 1 January 2013 if, by 30 November 2012, five Signatories have ratified the Convention. The Convention will be open for signature until 31 December 2012; it will also be open for signature and ratification by individual EU Member States, making commitments stemming directly from their respective budgets.

There is likely to be a time gap between the expiry date of the current FAC 1999 (30 June 2012) and the likely date of entry into force of the Food Assistance Convention (1 January 2013). The question of a possible further extension of the FAC 1999 will be formally addressed by the Food Aid Committee at its meeting in June 2012. A proposal from the Commission to the Council authorising the Commission, on behalf of the EU, not to support a further extension of the FAC 1999 is pending before the Council.

3) Procedure

The Commission requests therefore the Council to approve the conclusion of the Food Assistance Convention, on behalf of the European Union.