Promoting Human Rights and Democracy: A New Paradigm for the European Union

Building on events of the Arab Spring and its impact on the credibility of Europe as a genuine partner, this chapter calls for a fundamental overhaul of the EU’s approach to the promotion of human rights and democracy, taking into consideration the centrality of individuals as actors in the international arena. By drawing on the EU’s focus on “human security” centered on the “people first” principle, the author argues that a new paradigm for the primacy of individuals, including their basic needs, their aspirations and their freedom to govern themselves in whatever way they prefer. By developing the capacity to listen, the EU should shift from its role of “promoter” to that of “facilitator” of democracy.