Current EU development policy provides a general frame and background that justifies a Nexus approach and methodology. Thus, the new European Consensus on Development: “Our World, our Dignity, our Future” (June 2017) emphasises an integrated approach to development and strongly supports the 2030 Agenda with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that were adopted in September 2015 as a global framework for sustainable development action. The 2030 Agenda itself emphasises an integrated approach that can facilitate a Nexus methodology.

People, planet, prosperity and peace are four priorities shared by Africa and Europe, and areas where opportunities for beneficial cooperation abound. Over the past three decades, the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) has worked with many organisations and institutions across Africa. This report and its accompanying interactive online service, 'Africa StoryMaps', present the key findings from this collaboration, and set out options the decision-making, research, and education communities may consider.