"930" Project | Democracy
What does democracy really mean, and why is it important today? This article offers a brief look into the values and principles of democracy—how it shapes our society and our future.
This article was prepared as part of Project 930, a youth participation initiative supported by Erasmus+. The project aims to encourage young people to actively engage in dialogue about European citizenship and to take part in shaping a democratic, united, and inclusive Europe.
The word democracy comes from the Greek words "demos", meaning people, and "kratos" meaning power; so democracy can be thought of as "power of the people": a way of governing which depends on the will of the people.
The most obvious ways to participate in government are to vote, or to stand for office and become a representative of the people. Democracy, however, is about far more than just voting, and there are numerous other ways of engaging with politics and government. The other ideas would be staying informed about what is happening, what is being decided "in the name of the people", and in particular, about the decisions and actions being taken by your own representative.
Make your opinions known – either to your representatives in parliament, or to the media, or to groups working on particular issues.
Through the resources below, you can explore key EU initiatives and insights related to democracy, human rights, and youth engagement:
Key Resources on Democracy in Europe
EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy (2020–2027)
This plan outlines the European Union’s priorities and actions to promote human rights and democratic values globally and within its borders.
Read the Action Plan (PDF)
Eurobarometer Survey on Democracy
This survey explores how EU citizens perceive the state of democracy in their countries and in the EU, including concerns about potential threats to democratic institutions.
Democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights are the foundations on which the EU is based. The purpose of this survey was to collect information on EU citizens’ awareness on the state of democracy in their country and in the EU, as well as EU citizens’ perceptions of the possible threats that democratic institutions in the EU may be facing. Here you can find some interesting statistics and rates about EU countries
View the survey results
European Democracy Action Plan – Factsheets
An overview of EU efforts to strengthen media freedom, counter disinformation, and support democratic participation.
Download the factsheet
Alcide De Gasperi: A Mediator for Democracy and Freedom
This profile highlights the life and legacy of Alcide De Gasperi, one of the founding fathers of the European Union and a key advocate for democratic values.
Learn more about De Gasperi
The European Democracy Shield
In July 2024, the President of the European Commission proposed the creation of a 'European Democracy Shield'—a new initiative to better protect democratic institutions and processes in the EU.
Read about the proposal
Democracy Here | Democracy Now
A project led by the Council of Europe Youth Department, focusing on rebuilding trust between young people and democratic institutions through participation and dialogue.
Visit the project website
Get Involved
If you're interested in taking part in youth democratic initiatives, follow the Council of Europe Youth Department for updates, events, and opportunities:
Council of Europe Youth – Facebook
