Statement of the EU Delegation to China on the International Human Rights Day

The European Union is guided by the principles of the universality, interdependence and indivisibility of human rights, which are inherent to all human beings, to all cultures, at all times and everywhere. As enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the right to freedom of thought, freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly and association are inalienable and universal rights. They are non-derogable geographically or culturally.  

In recent years, China has made notable efforts in poverty alleviation, improved access to health, education and implemented other social improvements for its citizens. At the same time, civil and political rights are not guaranteed and are in some cases even deliberately systematically violated.

Human rights, democracy, and the rule of law are the bedrock of our societies and common identity. Despite the differences, the European Union and its Member States stand ready to engage with China within the framework of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue and in multilateral fora to promote respect for the rule of law and human rights, in accordance with international human rights obligations.

Read the full statement of the EU Delegation to China here.