Find out about the EU's declaration on digital rights and principles, which guide the digital transition in line with EU values.
Your rights need to be protected online as they are protected offline. Therefore, the EU has signed a declaration on European digital rights and principles which put the 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 across 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 important that the 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.
Freedom of choice
42% of Europeans consider fake news and disinformation as one of the online issues with the biggest personal impact on them
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
Safety and security
86% believe equally in the importance of increasing research and innovation for more secure and strong digital technologies
Sustainability
3 out of 4 Europeans consider that digital technologies will be playing an important role in helping to fight climate change
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