We are putting European Union foreign policy into action as part of a comprehensive geopolitical vision, in line with the Union’s foreign policy priorities. We act as first responder to foreign policy needs and opportunities in the following areas:
The Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) of the European Union aims to preserve peace and strengthen international security in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
The EU responds rapidly to crises, builds peace and helps to prevent conflicts around the world. It works with partner countries and organisations on effective responses to global and transregional threats to security and peace.
The European Union, the United Nations and the World Bank work together since 2008 to assist countries recovering from conflict-related or natural crises in assessing needs and defining recovery and reconstruction activities.
The European Peace Facility is an off-budget instrument that enhances the EU’s ability to act as a global security provider. It was established in March 2021 to preserve peace, prevent conflicts and strengthen international security.
The EU cooperates with partners around the world to promote its strategic interests and address global challenges in a fast and flexible manner. It funds activities that translate the EU political objectives and commitments into concrete results.
Elections are one of the defining bases of a functioning democracy. Election observation is part of the EU’s foreign policy with respect to support to democracy and human rights and the rule of law worldwide. It contributes to the strengthening of democratic institutions, building public confidence in electoral processes, helping to deter fraud, intimidation and violence. It also reinforces other key EU foreign policy objectives, in particular peacebuilding
The European Union is a major centre for diamond trade. Within the EU, Council Regulation (EC) No 2368/2002, as amended, sets out the criteria for importing or exporting rough diamonds in order to ensure adherence to the requirements of the ‘Kimberley Process’ (KP).
The absolute ban on torture and ill-treatment enshrined in core United Nations human rights conventions is reflected at EU level in the Charter of Fundamental Rights, which states that ‘No one shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment’. The Charter also prohibits capital punishment.