Developed within the framework of the New Democratic Pact for Europe, the Reykjavik Parameters translate Europe’s shared standards on democracy into concrete, practical criteria for a well-functioning democratic system.

The Parameters are structured around five interdependent pillars:

• Democratic participation
• Democratic institutions
• Democratic governance and integrity
• Democratic freedoms, inclusion, and civil society
• Democratic future

These pillars are interconnected and equally important, providing a holistic view of what genuine democracy means in practice.

Why are the Reykjavik Parameters significant?

In a time of growing complexity and challenges for democracies across the continent, such as declining trust in democratic institutions, erosion of the rule of law, or disinformation campaigns, the Reykjavik Parameters respond to the need for a unified, forward-looking set of democracy requirements. The Reykjavik parameters give member states a full-spectrum view of democracy, useful to identify both strengths and gaps in national systems. The application of the Reykjavik Parameters can therefore provide evidence to support the need for reforms or guide ongoing reform processes.

A resource for all

Although intended for Council of Europe member states as primary guardians of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, the Reykjavik Parameters are available for use by any institution, civil society organisation, or citizen wishing to review the state of democracy in their country.

Voluntary but grounded in binding instruments

The use of the Reykjavik Parameters is voluntary. However, many international instruments on which they are based – including the European Convention on Human Rights – are binding for member states. The Parameters therefore provide a voluntary yet authoritative guide to support policy making.

A catalyst for reform and international trust

The application of the Parameters does not require any legal or constitutional changes. They provide a framework for a country to assess itself. Where vulnerabilities or gaps in a democratic system are identified, the relevant authorities can implement targeted reforms. Such democratic reforms can build confidence among citizens and international partners.

From 2027, pilot implementation of the Parameters will begin with volunteering member states through the project REVIVE. National democratic order, culture and traditions will be respected when applying the Reykjavik Parameters to ensure both rigour and legitimacy.

Interested in learning more?

Check the Questions and answers on the Parameters and the factsheet.