Mediterranean policy

Cooperation between EU and Mediterranean countries is founded in the Barcelona Process, which was launched in 1995 with the signing of the Barcelona Declaration. The partnership was renewed by the inauguration of the Union for the Mediterranean on 13 July 2008.

Unique and ambitious, the Barcelona Process represents a turning point in Euro-Mediterranean relations. The new regional relationship is based on a broad framework of political, economic and social relations between the EU and Southern Mediterranean partners, with a parliamentary dimension represented by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM-PA).

Close-up of an olive tree in the sunset


The EPP Group considers an advanced neighbourhood policy fundamental, contributing to a better understanding between the EU and its Mediterranean partners. We favour a solidarity-based Mediterranean policy capable of meeting the multiple challenges of peace, stability, illegal migration, combating terrorism, security, mutual understanding and respect for human rights.

We work with our Mediterranean partners to identify priorities in areas such as migration, religion, environmental protection, education and training. We also work for women’s participation in economic, political and social life, women’s access to education and medical care, and projects and programmes geared towards women.

Our EPP Working Group on Mediterranean Policy is committed to breathing fresh political life into Euro-Mediterranean relations. It meets regularly with Mediterranean countries’ Ambassadors, officials from relevant EU institutions and experts to assess the Group's activities in connection with the UfM-PA and to strengthen our political relations with southern Mediterranean parties and groups with similar political positions and values. We also organise conferences, hearings and fact-finding missions in the countries in the region.

Related Position

Foreign affairs

Related Publications

publications 01.02.2023

EPP Group Position Paper on ASYLUM AND MIGRATION

Foreword to the second edition In April 2020, the EPP Group adopted a comprehensive Position Paper on...

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publications 30.04.2020

EPP Group position paper on asylum and migration

Introduction Mass migration is a global phenomenon. People move between and within continents driven by...

publications 19.02.2019

EPP Group Position Paper on International Trade

The EU is at the forefront of free and fair world trade. This is demonstrated by our numerous trade...

publications 16.10.2018

Position paper on Security: We put people’s safety first

Europeans need to feel safe Our world is a world of change. Old allies are distancing...

publications 14.07.2016

Position Paper on the Mediterranean

Stability in the Mediterranean region means stability for Europe The EU Global Strategy and the review of the European...

publications 18.05.2015

Position Paper on Migration

Any approach to migration must be holistic. Every aspect must be considered as part of an all-encompassing strategy with the principle of...

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