The European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles guides the digital transition in line with EU values for a secure and sustainable digital future.
Your rights need to be protected online as well as offline. Therefore, the EU signed a declaration on European digital rights and principles which put Europeans at the heart of the EU’s digital transformation and promote a digital transition shaped by European values.
European Digital Rights and Principles
All people in the EU should get the most out of the digital transformation. The digital rights and principles will guide the EU in promoting an inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable society. The declaration is the first of its kind in the world. It will be a reference point for everyone in the EU and a guide for policy makers and companies developing digital technologies. The digital rights and principles will be reflected in the EU’s actions, future work, and engagement with global partners.
People at the centre
Digital technologies should protect people’s rights, support democracy, and ensure that all digital players act responsibly and safely. The EU promotes these values around the world.
Solidarity and inclusion
Technology should unite, not divide, people. Everyone should have access to the internet, to digital skills, to digital public services, and to fair working conditions.
Freedom of choice
People should benefit from a fair online environment, be safe from illegal and harmful content, and be empowered when they interact with new and evolving technologies like artificial intelligence.
Participation
Citizens should be able to engage in the democratic process at all levels and have control over their own data.
Safety and security
The digital environment should be safe and secure. All users, from childhood to old age, should be empowered and protected.
Sustainability
Digital devices should support sustainability and the green transition. People need to know about the environmental impact and energy consumption of their devices.
Key figures
People at the centre
4 out of 5 Europeans consider it important that public authorities shape the development of Artificial Intelligence and other digital technologies to ensure they respect our rights and values
Solidarity and inclusion
9 out of 10 Europeans think it is important for public authorities to provide proper human support to help individuals navigate the digital transformation and digital services.
Protection of digital rights
44% of Europeans citizens feel well protected in the digital space
Participation
3 out of 4 Europeans consider that by 2030, digital technologies will be important for engaging in democratic life, such as voting or finding reliable information
Awareness of digital rights
59% of European citizens are aware that the rights they have offline should also be respected online.
Sustainability
3 out of 4 Europeans consider that digital technologies will be playing an important role in helping to fight climate change
Related Content
The European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles promotes a digital transition shaped by...