Development and scientific cooperation in Belgium are closely related with the federal organization of the country. The federal state is competent for matters that concern the whole of the country. Among this are (part of) development cooperation, and (part of) scientific research policy. Next to this, the regions (Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels) have established both a development cooperation and a science policy. Part of these competences belong to the communities (Dutch, French, and German speaking communities) that are competent for among others, education and culture. Also the 10 Belgian provinces and some communities support projects on development cooperation, part of it can be research oriented. Belgium is one of the fo.unders of the European Union (EU) that has currently 27.member countries. Europe has established its own science and development policies. In programs related to these policies, Belgium is as a rule a possible partner.