The European Union (EU) is a political and economic regional organization composed of 27 member states with a population of 440 million people. The EU has broad competences, including in areas that have significant impact on human rights. Its institutions play an important role in protecting and promoting human rights and the rule of law in EU member states and implement the EU’s common foreign policy. Human Rights Watch engages with EU institutions and its member states through its Brussels office and in capitals throughout the EU.

Map showing European Union members

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