COOPERA - Support for South-South and triangular cooperation

Funded by Luxembourg Cooperation with a budget of EUR 5 million over five years, this project aims to strengthen Costa Rica’s role as a key actor in South-South and triangular cooperation. Its objective is to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise among partner countries in Latin America, with particular attention to the Caribbean.

Fostering sustainable development through cooperation

Aligned with Sustainable development goal (SDG) 17, the project contributes to strengthening global partnerships for sustainable development and accelerating progress toward other SDGs.

It supports cooperation and development initiatives in key areas of interest for Costa Rica, its partners, and Luxembourg, particularly promoting:

• gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls;
• climate resilience and environmental sustainability;
• social inclusion, especially for those in situations of increased vulnerability.

Expanding cooperation networks

The project targets Central America, South America, and the Caribbean – strategic regions for deepening and expanding Costa Rica’s cooperation networks. Given its geographical proximity and historical and diplomatic ties, Costa Rica plays a central role in this dynamic by leveraging its expertise to benefit its partners.

While Latin America already has well-established collaborations with Costa Rica, connections with Caribbean nations remain limited. Yet, these countries face similar challenges, particularly regarding sustainable development and social cohesion. The project seeks to strengthen these connections and foster new synergies for more inclusive and effective cooperation.

A mechanism for innovation and knowledge sharing

The project operates through calls for proposals, enabling public and private institutions, civil society organisations, research centres, and businesses to access funding for projects aligned with the identified priorities. It aims to facilitate the exchange of experiences and technologies to enhance knowledge transfer among partner countries.

A shared commitment with Luxembourg

Luxembourg plays a key role in the South-South and triangular cooperation model by providing technical expertise and strategic resources to enrich exchanges between Southern countries. As a third-party partner, it facilitates the integration of best national and European practices while respecting local realities and priorities. Beyond financing, Luxembourg fosters synergies, strengthens collaboration, and maximises the impact of joint initiatives. This approach promotes a more balanced, sustainable, and mutually beneficial cooperation model.