Despite the expansion of democracy and the rule of law since World War II, they remain subject to continuous progress and setbacks. Due to its conceptual complexity and the principle of self-determination, democracy was not immediately recognized as a foundational value in international law. However, its role in safeguarding fundamental rights and reinforcing the rule of law led to its incorporation into international legal instruments. The European Union has become a central actor in promoting and protecting democracy, both through its treaty-based commitments and concrete actions, including internal policies and external relations, particularly in new-generation trade agreements with third countries. Other regional and international frameworks have also acknowledged democracy as a legal and political standard. Given the transnational nature of current democratic challenges and the ongoing crisis affecting the Western model of freedom and human rights, international efforts to uphold democratic principles—such as those advanced by the EU, especially in new-generation trade agreements—warrant close analysis. While criticisms persist regarding the selective application of this principle and concerns over the North-South imposition of political models, the EU’s role in strengthening democracy remains a key contribution to global governance and the protection of fundamental values.