EUGrundrechteCharta

The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, also known in German as the EU-Grundrechte-Charta, is a foundational document of the European Union that consolidates civil, political, economic, and social rights for EU citizens and residents. It was proclaimed in Nice in 2000 and became legally binding in 2009 with the Lisbon Treaty, giving it the same legal value as the EU treaties.

Its provisions are organized into six titles: Dignity; Freedoms; Equality; Solidarity; Citizens’ Rights; and Justice. The Charter covers a wide range of rights, including human dignity, the right to life and the prohibition of torture, privacy and data protection, freedom of expression, conscience, religion and assembly, as well as education, work, social security, health care, consumer protection, and environmental protection. It applies to EU institutions and to member states when they are implementing EU law, and individuals can rely on its provisions in EU courts.

Interpretation and scope: The Charter reflects and complements the European Convention on Human Rights, and its rights are applicable within the EU legal order. It binds EU institutions and, in relation to member states, its norms apply when those states are implementing or enforcing EU law. The Court of Justice of the European Union is the primary interpreter of the Charter, and national courts may refer questions to ensure compliance with EU law.