The New European Financial Architecture for Development: Change or Continuity?

After years of discussions, the European Union’s (EU’s) new development finance architecture finally came into being under umbrella ‘Status Quo Plus’. This article aims to, firstly, bring much-needed clarification in nebulous landscape EU finance; and secondly, gain a more profound understanding recent changes by examining to what extent they witness change or continuity. Based on large variety empirical data secondary literature, we find that has witnessed significant institutional while ideological trends are continued. Institutionally, elaborate simplification instruments, shift their accessibility – favour national agencies private actors whereby Investment Bank (EIB) loses its monopoly commercial guarantees reshuffling power play Commission (larger) Member States. In terms policy content underlying ideology, however, observe deepening trend towards financialization within (development finance) institutions which ties with geopoliticization aid. We conclude ‘Plus’ represents nevertheless primarily served (intentionally not) support continuing commitment selling market. The conclusions summarize main findings formulate suggestions for further research. Union (EU), development, financialization, geopoliticization, finance, (EIB), blending, public banks