In the context of this book, the present contribution will assess the ‘value of EU values’. 1 in the Union’s dealing with other international actors. The importance of the values in internal situations relating to the rule of law is high on the political agenda. 2 Far less studied is the way in which these values have, or should have, an impact on the EU’s external relations. 3 Article 2 TEU presents these values as forming part of its very foundation and lists them in the following manner: The Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail.