The EU’s values are laid out in article 2 of the Lisbon Treaty and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.

The Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail.

The Charter of Fundamental Rights is the EU’s internal human rights agreement. It protects and promotes everyone’s fundamental rights within the EU. The Charter is a modern instrument, which is interpreted considering the societal changes, scientific and technological developments. It also includes so-called 'third generation' fundamental rights, such as the right to data protection, guarantees on bioethics, and the right to good administration.

The Charter contains 50 fundamental rights and freedoms grouped under six titles: dignity, freedoms, equality, solidarity, citizens’ rights, and justice. These are followed by general provisions on their interpretation and application.

The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) was established in 2007 to provide assistance and expertise on fundamental rights to EU institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, and to Member States when they implement EU law. The FRA was established under Council Regulation (EC) No 168/2007 (as amended by Council Regulation (EU) 2022/555 of 5 April 2022). The agency plans its research on the basis of a bi-annual single programming document.

The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) assists the EU institutions and Member States in integrating the principle of gender equality into their policies and with combating gender-based discrimination. It delivers high quality research and information to support them in their efforts to end gender inequalities. EIGE was established under Regulation (EC) No 1922/2006.