International Association of Francophone Regions (AIRF)

What is AIRF?

The International Association of Francophone Regions (AIRF) is an organization dedicated to promoting the Francophonie of territories and actively participating in the development of a more solidary, diverse, and prosperous Francophone space. Established in 2002 in Lyon, AIRF currently brings together over 180 local governments and around ten national associations of regions across 24 Francophone countries.

Origin and History

AIRF was created at the initiative of three Francophone regions:

• Tombouctou Region (Mali)
• Rabat-Zemmour-Zaër Region (Morocco)
• Rhône-Alpes Region (France)

These regions were united through decentralized cooperation agreements. The association’s goal is to strengthen exchanges, cooperation, and solidarity among Francophone local governments and contribute to the economic and social development of their territories.

Mission and Vision

AIRF acts as a catalyst for economic and social development in Francophone territories. It seeks to promote regional policies adapted to contemporary challenges while fostering decentralized cooperation between local governments.

Its vision is based on several key principles:

• Shared economic development, creating value and employment
• Respect for cultural identities and diversity
• Adaptation to environmental challenges, especially climate change
• Promotion of peace, the rule of law, and human rights

AIRF positions itself as a key actor in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Francophone territories, in line with the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations.

Key Priorities and Actions

AIRF focuses on several key thematic priorities to address global and local challenges:

1. Regionalization and territorial governance: Promoting constructive dialogue between national, territorial, and local levels.
2. Inter-regional and cross-border cooperation: Encouraging bilateral and multilateral partnerships between Francophone local governments.
3. Economic Francophonie: Stimulating economic exchanges and creating joint development projects.
4. Environment and climate change: Supporting sustainable development policies, water management, and renewable energy.
5. Youth, education, and culture: Promoting youth inclusion, training, and the valorization of Francophone culture.

Since its General Assembly in 2022, AIRF has redefined its priorities for the 2022-2027 period, placing particular emphasis on:

• Economic cooperation and strategic partnerships between regions.
• Support for Sahelian territories, which face significant security and development challenges.

Modes of Action

AIRF implements various actions to support its members in the execution of their projects:

• Support for territorial projects: AIRF helps local governments design and develop projects, mobilizing international funding.
• Economic and inter-regional meetings: The association organizes events to strengthen economic ties between public and private actors in Francophone regions.
• Capacity building: Training workshops, seminars, and study visits are offered to elected officials and civil servants to improve their governance and public management skills.
• Advocacy for regionalization: AIRF actively advocates for regionalization and supports initiatives that promote better decentralized governance in the Francophone world.

Status and Partnerships

AIRF enjoys consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC) and is also an International Non-Governmental Organization (INGO) recognized by the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). It collaborates with numerous institutions, including the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the French Development Agency (AFD), and other international funders and organizations.

Members and Partners

AIRF’s members include territorial authorities (regions, departments, provinces, municipalities), associations of local governments, as well as technical and financial partners. AIRF has signed cooperation agreements with regional and international partners, including the Organisation of United Regions (ORU/FOGAR).