Protection of human rights and democracy

The European Union must step up the fight for democracy and fundamental freedoms as authoritarian regimes around the world increasingly aggressively suppress human rights and undermine the international order. This is the main message of the report adopted by the European Parliament. MEPs warn that democracy is facing increasing pressure not only in often problematic regions, but also within the EU itself.

In the text adopted today, MEPs therefore draw attention to the EU's responsibility to continue to defend universal democratic values and principles, human rights, international justice and peace. As a particular threat, MEPs cite the rise in the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which, if insufficiently regulated, can threaten the functioning of democracy and respect for human rights, in the same way that the internet is being used to restrict political freedom and undermine the integrity of elections.

MEPs also point to the tools at the EU's disposal to defend democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights, such as suspending funding for European Neighbourhood Policy projects, adding human rights clauses to trade agreements with third countries and enforcing the EU's global human rights sanctions regime.

The report concludes that MEPs believe that the EU has all the means at its disposal to promote and defend human rights and democratic values. With today's vote, they called on the Commission and Member States to use these tools as soon as possible.