Since the war in Ukraine began last year, our so-called European Values have received quite a bit of attention. Some even go as far as saying that the Ukrainian people are currently defending the
European values by defending themselves against the Russian invasion . But of course, the term
‘European values’ has not been invented only in 2022. In fact, it has been used by all political
parties, from left-leaning to right-leaning, and in different types of contexts, from economy to
migration. Given the fact that Europe, also beyond the EU, is a diverse continent and is also quite
diverse within its respective countries, it is a rather difficult task to identity one specific set of values
that every single person will agree on.
So, what do people generally refer to when they talk about European values? Do common grounds
between countries that have spent centuries fighting each other exist? The term ‘European values’
refers to a set of principles and ideals that are often associated with countries and societies in
Europe. These values have evolved over centuries and are influenced by various factors such as
history, culture, philosophy, and political systems. Looking at current research, one comes across
six basic European values time and time again..
Six Basic European Values
- Democracy and Human Rights: Europe has a long history of promoting democratic governance
and protecting human rights. These values encompass principles such as freedom of speech,
equality before the law, religious freedom, and respect for individual liberties. - Rule of Law: The rule of law is a fundamental principle in European societies, emphasising that all
individuals, including government authorities, are subject to the law. It ensures fairness, justice,
and accountability in governance. - Social Welfare and Solidarity: Many European countries have developed comprehensive social
welfare systems that aim to provide a safety net for their citizens. These systems often include
universal healthcare, unemployment benefits, and access to education. Solidarity among citizens is
also valued, with an emphasis on helping those in need and reducing inequality. - Secularism and Religious Freedom: Europe has a diverse religious landscape, and secularism is
an important value in many European countries. It entails the separation of religion and state,
allowing individuals to practice their beliefs freely while ensuring the neutrality of the government - Cultural Diversity and Multiculturalism: Europe is known for its cultural diversity, with numerous
languages, traditions, and customs present across the continent. Many European countries value
multiculturalism and strive to create inclusive societies that respect and celebrate different cultural
backgrounds. - Environmental Stewardship: European societies place importance on environmental protection
and sustainability. Efforts to combat climate change, promote renewable energy sources, and
conserve natural resources are common themes in European policies.
Peace and Cooperation: Europe has experienced a tumultuous history marked by conflicts, but in
the aftermath of World War II, there has been a strong commitment to peace and cooperation
among European nations. Initiatives such as the European Union (EU) aim to foster collaboration,
economic integration, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
(As adapted from E. Gozědziak, and I. Main , S. Gervas and S. A. Skryl )
Peace though Economic Connection at the Core of the EU
Especially Peace and Cooperation is a value which’s importance can currently not be underlined
enough: The EU itself was born out of a desire for peace among countries which, historically, have spent more time fighting each other than at peace. The idea behind the European Coal and Steel
Community that would later become the EU was that through a strong economic connection and
interdependence between the countries, war would be off the table. In fact, since the founding of
the EU, Europe has experienced the longest period of peace in its entire history.
Charter of Fundamental Rights at the Core of European Values
Although there is no universal list of values, several of the six values have translated into an
officially adopted document at EU-level called ‘ Charter of Fundamental Rights ’.
While the charter is not explicitly called „List of European Values“, it sets the tone regarding which
rights and liberties are given priority in our societies and policy making in the EU, and has therefore
set the basis of values the EU has given itself. The Charter is divided into six sections: Dignity,
Freedoms, Equality, Solidarity, Citizens’ Rights and Justice.
National authorities too are bound to comply with the Charter which often goes further than
national law. Poland is the only EU member state in which the Charter is not fully applicable, since
the country signed an opt-out clause for domestic political reasons. In all countries implementing
the Charter, if rights laid out in the Charter are violated, legal action can be taken to demand
compliance. This marks a great strengthening of fundamental rights in the EU.
However, taking the historical background into account, we are led back to the question: is it even
possible to find a universal set of values that each European county beyond the EU can agree on?
The European Value Study: More Common Ground than Differences
Given the fact that the number of values can technically be infinite, contradicting, and less or more
generalised, it is difficult to find one answer. However, researchers have focussed on exactly that,
and ever since 1981 have conducted the European Value Study , collecting Europe’s broadest to
the most specific values. The track changes in values, the study is conducted and updated
regularly. Therefore, it is a much more specific tool in detecting the common points and differences
concerning values in Europe.
For example, the 2017-study reveals that the percentage of people supporting a democratic
political system is above 90% in almost all EU member states, and generally above 80% even in
non-EU member states. Some results even disprove certain stereotypes – the percentage of
people that say work is very or quite important in their lives is actually higher in most of the
southern European states (Spain: 95%, Italy: 96%) than the stereotypically „workaholic nation“
Germany (89%).
Above all, this survey demonstrates that even beyond the basic six values mentioned above,
European countries differ only slightly in how they perceive certain values, and impressively shows
how much European countries actually agree on, despite their differences – as the motto of the EU
goes: United in Diversity.
We strongly invite you to check out the Charter and map of values yourself! 🙂
Written by Ania Nahorna and Stefaniya Vlasova.
