The purpose of the programming phase is to identify the main objectives and sector priorities for co-operation with one country or one region, and thus to provide a relevant and feasible programming framework within which programmes and projects can be identified and prepared. The situation at national and sector level is analysed to identify problems, constraints and opportunities which co-operation could address. For each of the identified priorities, strategies that take account of the lessons of past experience are formulated. The programming process is multi-annual and indicative.

The European Commission directorates responsible for the programming are Directorate-General for Developmen" (DG DEV) for ACP countries and Directorate-General for External Relations (DG RELEX) for other countries. Following the devolution reform, local EC delegations now play a more active role in the drafting of programming documents, although the final responsibility still lies with EC headquarters.

As a general rule, programming is negotiated with the recipient country. It constitutes the “Order For Service” (OFS) formally sent from DG RELEX or DG DEV to the implementing EuropeAid Co-operation Office. Any review thereof (as a general rule annually, or where appropriate, more frequently or at the time of mid-term reviews), is considered as an adaptation of the OFS and as such follows the same rule of adoption as the initial document.