EU values explained in one minute

What are the six core values the European Union is based upon and how do they translate into our daily lives?

The EU is founded on six core values that form the basis of our society:

  • Respect for human dignity
  • Freedom
  • Democracy
  • Equality
  • Rule of law
  • Respect for human rights, including those of minorities

EU values are common to EU countries and ensure a society in which pluralism, tolerance, justice, solidarity, non-discrimination and equality prevail. They are enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty of European Union.


Read more about about how the EU can act against breaches of EU values and the European Parliament’s role in protecting fundamental rights