Mission and Vision of the Directorate General of Democracy and Human Dignity

"Safeguarding and realising genuine democracy” is the long-term strategic goal of Directorate General of Democracy and Human Dignity.

 A strong and diverse team

We are a very diverse team of about 560 colleagues, experts in fields such as law, political sciences, human rights and international relations; youth, education and culture policies; project and programme management, budget execution and administrative support. We come from the 46 member States and most of us are based in Strasbourg (France).  We also have colleagues posted in field offices and in the cities hosting several partial agreements (Austria and Luxembourg). We also have a youth centre in Budapest, Hungary. 
 

A focus on democracy, equality, diversity and respect for human dignity

We help member States strengthen the resilience of democracy putting human dignity at its heart and making it tangible to everyone. With governments, civil society and experts in many fields, we discuss challenges and find solutions - together. We develop norms and policies. We also monitor and support putting them into practice. 

Committed to strengthening both democratic security and respect for human dignity  in Europe and beyond, we work in close collaboration with our 46 member States to reinforce democratic institutions and restore citizens’ trust in them, and at the same time upholding human dignity by fostering inclusive societies free from discrimination, hatred, and violence. The Directorate General also empowers young people to confidently help shape a shared European future. 
This work is guided by the Reykjavík Declaration, adopted at the Organisation’s Summit of Heads of State and Government and by the Organisation’s journey towards a New Democratic Pact for Europe. 

 

Very specific objectives

  • ensuring respect for human dignity without discrimination 
  • promoting gender equality and inclusion
  • protecting the rights of the child
  • strengthening young people’s access to rights, deepening their knowledge, and developing their skills so they can actively engage in democratic life. 
  • fighting trafficking, violence against women, and violence against children 
  • improving the functioning of democratic institutions including by supporting civil society, protecting media freedom and the safety of journalists
  • promoting democratic, quality, inclusive and corruption-free education systems, strengthening the democratic competencies of European citizens, 
  • promoting culture and strong cultural policies and governance

 Themes