EU research: New paths found for values ​​in foreign policy!

EU research: New paths found for values ​​in foreign policy!

On July 3, 2025 there will be significant news from the Jean Monnet network ValEUs, led by Professor Dr. Timm Beichelt is standing. Scientists from 20 partner universities on five continents work together to research the values ​​of the European Union (EU) in foreign policy and analyze its challenges. As part of this research project, a free online course entitled “Values ​​in European Union Foreign Policy” was launched. This course aims to disseminate knowledge beyond academia and inform a wider audience on EU foreign policy issues.

The course offers a total of 13 lessons and examines the values ​​of EU foreign policy from interdisciplinary and regional perspectives. The topics covered include foreign policy challenges such as security, human rights standards in migration policy and the influence of right-wing populist forces. Participants have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge through videos, presentations, reading and an online exam. After passing the course, a digital certificate will be issued.

Course content and target groups

The target group of this course includes students, media professionals, political actors, as well as representatives of development aid and other interested parties who are committed to the core values ​​of the EU such as democracy, human rights, solidarity, peace, justice, equality and prosperity. In addition, the Young Generation Policy Briefs from students of the Master's program in European Studies at the European University Viadrina publish important perspectives on the EU's values-based foreign policy.

The first editions of these briefings cover current topics such as Albania's migration policy, the EU's migration agreement with Tunisia and the rule of law in Serbia. Such initiatives are particularly relevant at a time when the EU is facing major foreign policy challenges.

European foreign and security policy

The EU's common foreign and security policy aims to resolve conflicts and promote international consensus. It is based on diplomacy and respect for international rules. Trade, humanitarian aid and development cooperation also form important aspects of the EU's external relations. The EU aims to build partnerships with major international actors and attaches importance to taking into account the interests of all stakeholders.

The EU does not have a permanent military, but uses ad hoc military forces provided by member states when necessary. This flexibility allows the EU to carry out peacekeeping missions in crisis areas and provide humanitarian aid around the world. The European External Action Service (EEAS) acts as the Union's diplomatic service and manages over 140 delegations and offices worldwide.

The EU's foreign policy is largely determined by the European Council, the decision-making body made up of the heads of state and government of the member countries. Comprehensive decisions in this area require the consent of all member states.

Values ​​of the European Union

The EU's values ​​are enshrined in Article 2 of the Lisbon Treaty and the Charter of Fundamental Rights. These fundamental values ​​include human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights. These values ​​form the basis of both the EU's internal policies and its external relations.

Particular attention should be paid to the EU's role as a global actor promoting peace, security and sustainable development. The EU was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012, recognizing its significant commitment to peace, reconciliation and human rights in Europe.

The “ValEUs” project, funded by the EU Commission as part of the Erasmus+ program with 1.2 million euros, will be active until 2027 and is intended to ensure that the EU adheres to its self-imposed values ​​in foreign policy. It represents an important step in exploring how the EU can implement its values ​​in the context of migration, asylum policy and the enlargement process. You can find out more about the EU's goals and their importance for the international community on the European Union website.