Our values
Human rights
Human rights are protected by the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. These include freedom from discrimination, protection of personal data, and access to justice. Every citizen is entitled to these rights equally.
Rule of law
The EU is based on the rule of law. Everything it does is founded on treaties voluntarily and democratically agreed by its member states. Law and justice are upheld by an independent judiciary, with the European Court of Justice as the final authority — its judgments are binding on all member states.
Equality
Equality ensures that all citizens are treated the same before the law. It includes gender equality and equal opportunities in every area of life. This principle has guided European integration since the Treaty of Rome.
Democracy
The EU is built on representative democracy. Citizens have the right to vote and stand in elections for the European Parliament, whether in their country of origin or residence. Political participation is a cornerstone of European citizenship.
Freedom
Freedom means the right to move, live, and work across the Union. It also safeguards personal liberties such as privacy, belief, assembly, and expression. These freedoms are guaranteed by the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.
Human dignity
Human dignity is the foundation of European society. It is inviolable and must always be respected and protected. All fundamental rights stem from this principle.
27.10.2026
Are (secondary) schools eligible associates, and can a teacher be paid as an expert?
Yes, schools can be associates. An associate is an organisation or individual that plays a real role in the project but does not receive in-kind support for their own costs, except for travel and subsistence costs directly linked to activities of the Action. Associates must be described in Annex A – Application Form. A school can, for example, help reach young people, provide a space or take part in activities. Teachers can take part in project activities, but they cannot receive a fee from the project. Under the Guidelines, compensation of staff of public administration are not an eligible cost, and teachers employed in public schools are considered to be covered by this rule.
Guidelines for Applicants: Glossary (“Associate”), section 2.1.1 (Associates),section 2.3 (Non-eligible costs) and section 4.2 (sub-criterion 4.2).