Austrian cooperation with Central America, especially with Nicaragua, is both challenging and interesting. The states in the region are looking to position themselves effectively in the global economy by strengthening mutual international relations through various trade agreements (e.g. the CAFTA free-trade agreement, the SICA integration alliance).

A strong region

Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) supports the region in implementing this open-door policy in trade relations. Cross-border production sector measures as part of a regional programme aim at raising the competitiveness of small business and farming enterprises in ADC partner and priority countries.

At the same time, ADC seeks to ensure that the new opportunities do not work to the detriment of socially and economically underprivileged groups. Austria provides support with specific programmes and projects, especially in capacity building, paying particular attention to empowering indigenous peoples and the role of women.

Austrian engagement

In its cooperation with Central America, Austria concentrates on cooperations with local actors and initiatives. It opened a coordination office in Managua as early as 1986 to oversee regional activities. Central America has been a priority region of ADC since 1992. On a regional level, Austria is largely engaged in rural development, promotion of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, renewable energy and in capacity building. Since 2007 the ADC also supports disaster management, renewable energy and energy security initiatives in the Caribbean region.