Following a series of attacks since 2015, the European Union has adopted various measures to stop terrorism.
Although responsibility for combating crime and safeguarding security primarily lies with the member states, recent years’ terrorist attacks have shown that this is also a common responsibility which they must shoulder together. The EU contributes to the protection of its citizens by acting as the main forum for cooperation and coordination among member states.
In 2015, EU leaders issued a joint statement to guide the work of the EU and its member states. It called for specific measures, focusing on three areas:
- ensuring the security of citizens
- preventing radicalisation and safeguarding values
- cooperating with international partners
In November 2020, following the terrorist attacks in France, Germany and Austria, EU home affairs ministers agreed to further strengthen their joint efforts in the fight against terrorism, without compromising the EU’s common values such as democracy, justice and freedom of speech.
In December 2020, EU leaders reaffirmed their unity in the fight against radicalisation, terrorism and violent extremism.