The Spanish aid-for-trade network

Abstract

This article analyses the relationship between Spanish business and the state in the context of aid-for-trade. It argues that decision-making in this area is dominated by a cohesive network of actors drawn from the state, business and peak business organizations. Due to its power and influence, the aid-for-trade policy network has ensured since the 1970s that a significant proportion of Spanish aid has been allocated on the basis of commercial rather than development criteria. This has been achieved in the face of criticism from both domestic and international sources. Although forced to cede ground on some issues, the high level of cohesion that characterizes the aid-for-trade policy network has enabled it to successfully resist challenges to its role at the heart of Spanish aid initiatives.