On the tenth of April, EUT+ Ideas Institute think tank hosted an event titled "What European Values?" that brought together policy experts and academics to discuss the foundational values of the European project. The event aimed to foster open discussion and debate, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to critical inquiry within an academic context. EUT+ Ideas Institute think tank, established to examine deeply rooted conceptual frameworks, emphasizes posing questions unconditionally and facilitating discourse on essential issues, particularly the European values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, rule of law, and human rights.
The event featured insightful presentations and lively debates on these core values. Discussions on human dignity highlighted the importance of ensuring social cohesion and respect for individual worth across diverse European societies. In light of global challenges to democratic institutions, the importance of reinforcing democratic governance was emphasized, with strategies discussed to strengthen democratic practices within the EU. The rule of law and its maintenance faced critical examination, considering recent developments in member states, while ongoing efforts to protect and expand human rights were also a key focus.
In conclusion, the "What European Values?" event reaffirmed the importance of core European principles and the necessity of ongoing critical examination. The event underscored the role of the EUT+ Ideas Institute think tank's role in promoting thoughtful and informed debate on fundamental issues. By addressing these values comprehensively, the event contributed to a deeper understanding and appreciation of what it means to be European in today’s complex global environment, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and action to uphold these values within the European Union.