Democracy is worth protectingFrom scrolling through the news to streaming your favourite shows or debating with friends in the bar, democracy in the EU makes our everyday freedoms possible.It’s hard to imagine life without them. Yet the rights and freedoms we enjoy today were not always guaranteed - they were built and defended over generations.Today, democratic principles are increasingly under pressure, including in Europe. But together we can stem the tide.You can help shape democracy in Europe. By using your vote in local, regional, national and European elections, you stand up for your ideas and values. You can also launch a citizens’ initiative to push for new laws, share your views on policy, petition the EU on issues that matter to you, or volunteer in your community. The power is in your hands.Protecting democracy and building democratic resilience of citizens, societies and institutions is an urgent collective endeavour, to protect what matters for Europeans. To protect our democratic values, our freedoms and our way of life. Your democratic freedoms in the EUFree mediaYour voice mattersScience stays free Europe is stepping up Democracy is built into the DNA of the European Union. Rising from the ashes of a continent scarred by war and authoritarianism, the EU has worked to defend democratic values from its very beginnings.For example, the rule of law is a fundamental value of the EU, ensuring that its laws are applied evenly across all its Member States. It guarantees citizens’ rights, gives access to justice, and upholds fundamental rights and democratic standards that define the EU.Today, as new pressures are once again putting these values to the test, we are stepping up. Through initiatives like the European Democracy Shield, the EU is working to defend free and fair elections, support independent media, counter foreign interference and strengthen democratic institutions that protect us all. Use your voice Democracy depends on active citizens. Across the EU, people have opportunities to engage directly with decision-makers, and shape policies that affect their lives. Take part in democratic life - by voting, debating, or participating in civic initiatives.In the EU, by voting in European elections you choose Members of the European Parliament, ensuring your voice helps shape EU laws and policies while holding decision-makers accountable. Democracy is how we live our lives in Europe. Cherish it. Shape it. Protect it. Get involvedShare your opinionContribute to the EU policymaking processContribute to upcoming EU proposalsShare your ideas in online debates and Citizens' PanelsLaunch a citizens' initiativeAsk the European Commission to propose new legislationPetition the EUComplain about a law or ask the European Parliament to review an issueVolunteerGet involved in projects across Europe and beyondFind official documentsObtain access to information and documents about the work of EU institutions
Democracy is worth protectingFrom scrolling through the news to streaming your favourite shows or debating with friends in the bar, democracy in the EU makes our everyday freedoms possible.It’s hard to imagine life without them. Yet the rights and freedoms we enjoy today were not always guaranteed - they were built and defended over generations.Today, democratic principles are increasingly under pressure, including in Europe. But together we can stem the tide.You can help shape democracy in Europe. By using your vote in local, regional, national and European elections, you stand up for your ideas and values. You can also launch a citizens’ initiative to push for new laws, share your views on policy, petition the EU on issues that matter to you, or volunteer in your community. The power is in your hands.Protecting democracy and building democratic resilience of citizens, societies and institutions is an urgent collective endeavour, to protect what matters for Europeans. To protect our democratic values, our freedoms and our way of life.
