With the publication of annual report 2009 on development aid and assistance implemented in 2008, the European Union has confirmed in 2008 its position as the world's largest donor of development aid, with nearly 60% of world aid. The Commission alone has committed 12 million euros, or more than one fifth of the overall European effort.

In 2008, the EU's capacity to meet current commitments of aid and development to meet the new requirements has been tested by rising prices of food and energy  and for the global financial crisis. Despite these challenges, the 2009 annual report on policies for development and external assistance and its implementation in 2008 shows that European aid has brought concrete results in reducing poverty and contributing to economic development and democracy in the developing countries. The volume of aid committed by the Commission has reached 12 million.

The Commission continued its efforts to improve aid effectiveness by working more closely with its other international donors and the streamlining of procedures. There were significant efforts to channel aid through the national systems to strengthen local ownership and reduce transaction costs for partner countries.

In 2008, the Commission has also intensified its efforts to fully integrate into the development process on issues such as gender, environment and rights of children and populations.