The report addresses the global decline in human rights and democracy, urging the EU to prioritize their protection in foreign policy. It highlights the erosion of democratic systems, shrinking civic spaces, and rising authoritarian practices such as surveillance and censorship. The EU is called to reinforce multilateral cooperation to uphold international institutions like the International Criminal Court and combat impunity. Funding for human rights and democracy promotion must be secured and targeted to protect vulnerable groups, including women, minorities, and journalists. The report also stresses the need for binding human rights clauses in trade agreements and greater civil society involvement.