The Strategic Framework in action: Projects approved in 2024

In 2024, the Bank’s total volume of loan approvals of €4.5 billion across 44 new loan projects in 22 countries were in line with the annual target established for the five-year Strategic Framework implementation period. These loans were spread across the three lines of action for the CEB’s operations, namely: 1) investing in people and enhancing human capital; 2) promoting inclusive and resilient living environments; and 3) supporting jobs, and economic and financial inclusion. Gender, climate change and digitalisation are cross-cutting considerations that span across all three lines of action.

Moreover, the new projects are in line with the Council of Europe’s European Social Charter, for example, with regard to everyone’s right to education and training, health protection, (decent work, housing (and cultural activities (see ESC website).

While CEB projects address a range of social challenges, this section focuses on the following six: natural or ecological disasters, urban, rural and regional development, health and social care, education and vocational training, social and affordable housing, and supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Guided by the Strategic Framework, the CEB maintained its focus on vulnerable groups using its vulnerability lens, an operational tool that allows the Bank to better target its social investments where they are most needed and reaffirm its focus on assisting the most disadvantaged and marginalised members of society. Furthermore, the CEB deepened and expanded its collaboration with partner institutions in the development finance landscape, including with national development banks, the EU and peer MDBs, becoming the Chair of the Head of MDBs group for the first time in December 2024.

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