Two new programmes for the South Mediterranean region were approved by the European Union for a total of €29 million. The programmes are aimed at contributing to an inclusive growth and reinforcing the sectors of media and culture as vectors of development.

The European Commission announced that the EU approved two new programmes for the South Mediterranean region aiming at contributing to an inclusive growth and reinforcing the sectors of media and culture as vectors of development. The total value of both programmes is €29 million, where €12 million is earmarked for private sector development programme and €17 million for the media and culture programme. In November 2012, the Commission also announced €5 million for a new civil protection programme in the Mediterranean region.

The EU regional programme in support of the Private sector development in the Southern Mediterranean will contribute to sustainable growth and employment generation in the region in three ways. It will foster the development of a conducive business environment. It will set up quality Euro-Mediterranean networks providing adequate support and services for investing in micro, small and medium enterprises (mSMEs). It will demonstrate the potential of cultural and creative industries in promoting inclusive growth.

Moreover, the EU regional Programme on Media and Culture for development in the Southern Mediterranean region is intended to enhance the institutional framework for media and culture and support civil society actions. This will reinforce them as vectors of freedom of expression and contributors to sustainable economic development. According to the Commission, the programme will enhance the independence of the media in the region, complementing existing trainings for journalists and supporting the Mediterranean partners in their reflexion on the optimal regulation of the media and the media legislation.