Afrykańskie ubóstwo w polityce Unii Europejskiej

It is evident how disproportions between the underdeveloped South and economically developed countries have been increasing over time, especially seen in the context of processes of globalisation and internationalisation of contemporary international relations. At present it is impossible to give a reasonable, informed answer to the question whether those countries have a chance to overcome their development barriers. Still, the task of solving the problems is also a challenge faced by the entire international community and it undoubtedly influences the EU’ external policy. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the essence of the European Union's development policy. It scrutinizes the principles and functioning of the EU development policy as well as its challenges and obstacles. The author presents also the role and position of Poland in shaping EU policy outside Europe has been also presented. The author specifies the main challenges facing Polish foreign policy towards developing countries. The article aims to verify the assumption that the 1990s and early 21st century marked a significant revaluation of the European Union's development Policy towards Africa. On one hand, EU development policy is becoming more crucial and comprehensive in character. On the other hand, the current premises of EU development policy do not fully match the real needs of African (developing) countries.