Seven Basic European Values

Ania Nahorna and Stefaniya Vlasova | Jun 16, 2023

|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 seven basic European values time and time again.

Peace as a Founding Value 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! 🙂

∙ 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)