The EU-VALUES Network (EU Research and Education Network on Foreign Policy Issues: Values and Democracy) unites 21 leading higher education institutions from Europe and beyond to enrich the debate and deepen understanding of values and democracy in the EU's foreign policy.

Comprising nearly 100 academic experts from six continents, this coalition was formed with a focus on scholarly excellence and inclusiveness, emphasising gender equality and geographic diversity. Our network recognises the urgent need to bolster the EU's external legitimacy as a force for good amid global challenges.

Call for Papers: ‘The European Union's External Action: EU-Values in Policy Making’ now OPEN.

Join us at our next EU-VALUES Conference in Istanbul, Türkiye this coming July, 2025. Abstract deadline 30th March, 2025.

Ideas and Insights from the EU-VALUES Network

The EU proclaims itself a bastion of democracy, human rights, and dignity— values it champions in its laws and policies. Yet, its treatment of migrants exposes deep contradictions. While the EU swiftly granted Ukrainians temporary protection following Russia’s 2022 invasion, migrants from the Global South face harsh border controls, detention, and pushbacks. Dr. Stephen Phillips discusses how the stark contrast between open doors in the east and fortified barriers in the south reveal a hierarchy of humanity, where solidarity is selectively applied. Phillips critically examines the EU’s migration policies, exposing the hypocrisy of its value-based rhetoric. Through analysis of border securitisation, humanitarian responses, and historical context, it highlights how Europe’s migration policies reflect political priorities rather than universal principles of human dignity and inclusion. 

In this analysis, the Prof. Agnieszka Cianciara explores how France navigates the challenge of countering Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) while safeguarding democratic principles.

Disinformation, especially from Russia, threatens EU security, leading to a securitised response. The government created VIGINUM, a specialised agency, to counter FIMI while avoiding political backlash and censorship concerns. Legislation, such as the Law on Combating Information Manipulation, aims to safeguard elections but remains controversial. France’s cautious approach ensures transparency, limits data collection, and focuses on automated disinformation campaigns. However, concerns persist about balancing effectiveness with protecting civil liberties. This article explores how France navigates these complexities, serving as a model for the EU while debating the trade-offs between security and democracy.

Latest Episodes from the European Dialogue Podcast

In this episode, we are joined by Prof. Marja-Liisa Öberg. Associate Professor of EU Law at Lund University and a leading expert in EU constitutional and external relations law. Marja-Liisa unpacks her thought-provoking article, "Friend Zone Forever? The Essence of and Justifications for the EU’s Decision-Making Autonomy," which is part of the special issue "Third Country Influence on EU Law and Policy-Making: Setting the Scene," co-edited with Prof. Sandra Lavenex of the University of Geneva.

We dive into the complexities of the EU’s "friend zone" dynamic with third countries, exploring the autonomy of its decision-making processes, the challenges of external influence, and the evolving nature of its global relationships.

Don’t miss this engaging discussion on the intersection of law, policy, and international relations.

Latin America, Climate Action & Global Cooperation - ‘Climate Change in Regional Perspective’ with Prof. Andrea Ribiero Hoffmann

In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities for climate action in Latin America, featuring an in-depth discussion with Prof. Andrea Ribeiro Hoffmann, co-editor of ‘Climate Change in Regional Perspective - European Union and Latin American Initiatives, Challenges, and Solutions’ (alongside Prof. Paula Sandrin and Prof. Yannis. E. Doukas).

Andrea speaks to the institutional, political, and economic barriers that have hindered regional organisations like MERCOSUR and UNASUR from prioritising climate policies, despite Latin America’s environmental importance and vulnerabilities. She links regional challenges to global frameworks like the Paris Agreement, exploring how the region can leverage international commitments to strengthen local action. We discuss key takeaways from COP29 in Azerbaijan and expectations for COP30 in Brazil, particularly in relation to trade agreements like the EU-MERCOSUR deal and the role of civil society in climate governance.

Listen now on Soundcloud, Spotify or Youtube

‘Friend Zone Forever? The Essence of and Justifications for the EU’s Decision-Making Autonomy’ with Prof. Marja-Liisa Öberg

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Explore our latest expert webinars—available anytime, anywhere.
Protecting Democracy in Europe

Dr. Mesarovich's book, Europeanization and Informal Networks in Southeastern Europe, offers a captivating look at how informal networks among elites in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia influence EU accession. Joined by discussant Prof. Irena Petrovic, the session explored the hidden power of social ties in shaping reforms. A must-watch for fans of European studies and political networks! Rewatch and share your insights!

Based on extensive research in his latest book, Protecting Democracy in Europe: Pluralism, Autocracy, and the Future of the EU, Dr. Tom Theuns examined the pressing challenges of defending democracy within the EU, including the rise of autocracy, threats to pluralism, and the complex tensions shaping European governance. Enriching the discussion, renowned political scientist Prof. Vivien A. Schmidt provided expert reflections, offering deeper insights into the book’s themes and their far-reaching implications for the EU's future.

The Rise of Personalistic Regimes with Abel Escribà-Folch

The Evolution of Gender Equality and the EU with Esther Barbé

Introducing EU-VALUES Talks

Welcome to EU-VALUES Talks, a video series dedicated to unpacking the values, principles, and policies that define the European Union and its global influence. In each short video, hear from scholars as they delve into the key issues shaping the future of Europe— covering everything from democracy, human rights, and sustainable development to international cooperation and cultural exchange.

Whether you are a policy enthusiast, academic, or simply curious about the EU, this series will offer insights into how European values continue to impact global affairs. Stay tuned and explore the heart of Europe with us! Videos are in both English and Spanish.

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