This paper is one of a series on the experiences of European donors with the use of aid for poverty reduction and is the product of a major research programme involving ten European development research institutes.

The objective of the first stage of this research programme is to describe and assess each donor's goals as they relate to bringing the benefits of aid to poor people, and to review each donor's organisation and management to implement this objective. 0French aid is distinguished by its broad-based nature. It does not appear to be guided by a clearly defined global approach, and the institutions that manage it intervene in a fragmented way. No specific strategy has yet been developed with regard to poverty reduction.