AECID

The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) is the primary public entity responsible for managing Spain's international development cooperation policy. Operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, AECID designs, implements, and oversees development cooperation projects and programs, both directly and in collaboration with other national and international entities, including non-governmental organizations. The agency's mission focuses on eradicating poverty, promoting sustainable human development, and advancing human rights in developing countries.

Established in 1988, AECID has evolved to become a central actor in Spain's foreign action, particularly in the realms of development cooperation and humanitarian assistance. The agency operates through a network of Technical Cooperation Offices, Cultural Centres, and Training Centres across more than 30 countries, facilitating the implementation of Spain's development policies on the ground. AECID's work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing areas such as education, health, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and institutional strengthening.

In recent years, AECID has undergone significant reforms to enhance its effectiveness and adaptability to global challenges. The agency has increased its focus on humanitarian action, responding to crises with initiatives like the START (Spanish Technical Aid Response Team) project, which deploys rapid response teams to disaster-affected areas. Additionally, AECID has embraced digitalization to improve project efficiency and stakeholder communication. Through these efforts, AECID continues to solidify its role as a key player in promoting sustainable and inclusive development worldwide.