EU – U.S. Consultations Underscore Shared Commitment to Human Rights

On 28 March, the European Union and United States held the EU-US Human Rights Consultations at the level of senior officials. The meetings, which took place in Washington D.C., were led by  EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Eamon Gilmore and acting Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Lisa Peterson, and reaffirmed their strong mutual commitment to the transatlantic partnership.

During substantive discussions, both the EU and US addressed challenges to democracy and human rights around the world, emphasising in particular the need to hold the Russian Federation accountable for its unjustified and unprovoked war against Ukraine and its people. They agreed on the importance of cooperation in effectively promoting respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.  

The discussions covered a range of human rights issues in Europe and the United States, as well as Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Discussions also focused on cooperation in multilateral fora and on issues pertaining to technology and human rights, business and human rights, disability rights, and the empowerment of women and girls, as well as the protection of underrepresented communities – including historically racially and ethnically marginalised communities, and LGBTQI+ persons. During the consultations, EU and US officials also discussed efforts to defend against authoritarianism, promote respect for human rights, and fight corruption during the Summit for Democracy’s Year of Action.  

Joint Statement by President von der Leyen and President Biden

Against the backdrop of Putin’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine, the consultations demonstrated that the transatlantic alliance is strong and continues to address human rights challenges at home and abroad.