Sustainable development is now regarded as a key benchmark of international investment policy. In the context of climate, social, and economic challenges, the long-term effectiveness of projects has become a priority for development institutions. This is why sustainability has been embedded in the strategic documents and operational practice of the French Development Agency (AFD) as a systemic financing principle.
Alignment with international commitments
AFD has established sustainable development as a core principle of its 2025–2030 strategy. The agency’s activities are fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and international climate commitments, including the Paris Agreement. This means that financed projects must simultaneously deliver economic, social, and environmental outcomes.
Response to global challenges
The emphasis on sustainability is driven by the need to respond to climate change, natural resource degradation, growing social inequality, and food security risks. Traditional development models focused solely on economic growth have shown their limitations in the long term. A comprehensive approach makes it possible to account for systemic risks and reduce economic vulnerability.
Integration of economic, social, and environmental dimensions
AFD views sustainable development as an integrated model that combines investments in infrastructure, environmental protection, and the strengthening of social resilience. This approach contributes to building sustainable institutional and production systems in partner countries.
Long-term investment effectiveness
Projects focused on sustainability demonstrate greater viability, a lower environmental footprint, and higher levels of social inclusiveness. This increases the effectiveness of financing and reduces investment risks.
Thus, for AFD, sustainable development serves as the strategic foundation of its international activities aimed at generating stable and long-term development outcomes.
