D4.2 Discussion paper on mechanisms that can ensure that EU policies are coherent with SDGs - Updated
Creators: name: Vlahos, George
name: Karanikolas, Pavlos
name: Karytsas, Spyridon
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2024

description: This discussion paper examines the degree of policy coherence between the EU's internal and external policies shaping agricultural trade and the alignment of EU agricultural trade policy and trade agreements in economic, social and environmental terms. Our analysis of all the agreements and political initiatives that make up the “core” trade policy of the EU shows that a small number of trade agreements take into consideration in their provisions the environmental impact of agriculture, including issues such as the impact on soil and water quality, soil erosion, the sustainable use of biological diversity, etc.   

Policy coherence is explored at the level of specific EU policies. First, we examine the contribution of organic farming certification and food safety regulations to achieving the relevant sustainable development goals (SDGs). The region- or sector-specific impacts of these policies are examined within the framework of three Case Studies of the project through a detailed questionnaire sent to project partners. We then explore the effects of the possible integration of the Green Deal and Biodiversity Strategy into trade agreements. In addition, we examine the impacts of two CAP elements on trade, especially in developing countries: payments decoupled from production and Coupled Income Support for milk and milk products, sugar, and cotton. 

The analysis also includes critical reflections on the dispute settlement mechanisms and efforts to transform the global food system through the UN Food System Summit. 

The conclusions of the analysis are divided into different parts: policy coherence and sustainability issues in EU trade-related policies, policy proposals on the EU Organic Farming Certification Scheme, the Harmonised Food Safety regulations for EU imports, and Agricultural Extension and Training; policy coherence and impacts of CAP elements on third countries; general policy-making recommendations; considerations concerning TBTs and SPS; policy recommendations emerging from Policy Briefs of the MATS project's Case Studies, with a short discussion. The Discussion Paper concludes with overall suggestions.

The consecutive CAP reforms completed the shift towards area-based payments, which increased the coherence of the specific EU policy with the EU's global development goals. However, in some cases, the continuation and expansion of coupled payments do not seem to comply with the Policy Coherence for Development principles. Achieving policy coherence between the EU's CAP and the SDGs faces several significant barriers, such as institutional fragmentation, conflicting objectives, regulatory and ideological constraints, lack of comprehensive monitoring and evaluation, political and economic pressures, and inadequate stakeholder engagement, to name a few. A multifaceted strategy is needed to overcome these obstacles, including stronger institutional coordination, clear regulatory frameworks aligned with sustainability goals, enhanced monitoring mechanisms, and active stakeholder engagement to reconcile diverse policy objectives. Finally, reducing the negative impact of EU external trade on countries in the Global South requires a comprehensive approach that involves policy reforms, enhanced cooperation, and inclusive development strategies.