Background note on the promotion of fundamental rights, European democratic values and European citizenship at local and regional level

The EU is founded on the values of democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights. These universal values must be exercised at all levels of government, including local and regional. Cities, towns and other LRAs are part of the multilevel governance system that must cherish fundamental rights. This has already been acknowledged by the EU in many policy areas. Several EU strategies highlight the key role of the local level in promoting equality, diversity and the fight against discrimination; ensuring security in public space; responding to digitalisation challenges or fostering a greener EU. Fundamental rights and the rule of law have always been a core concern for the CoR, with local and regional representatives being key actors in building democratic space locally. As the CoR is responsible for promoting dialogue and cooperation between LRAs and the enlargement countries, its reach extends beyond the EU into candidate and potential candidate countries for EU accession.