At the very beginning of integration of Europe, the EC defined economic integration as its primary objective and human rights did not fall into its main activities. However, with the progress of European integration, human rights become a cornerstone in the external relations of the EC as well as a matter of concern within its territory. Through amendment of its basic treaties and adoption of relevant human rights laws, the EU has established the legal status of human rights within the framework of the Treaty of European Union. At the same time, it has also created its own distinctive forms of human rights. |