The charter has become legally binding on the EU with the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon, in December 2009. To reflect modern society, the charter includes 'third generation' fundamental rights, such as: data protection.

When did the Charter become legally binding?

The failure of the ratification process (1.1. 4) meant that the Charter remained a mere declaration of rights until the adoption of the Treaty of Lisbon. On 1 December 2009, the Charter became legally binding.

Is the European Social Charter legally binding?

The Charter is based on a ratification system, enabling States, under certain conditions, to choose the provisions they are willing to accept as binding international legal obligations. They are encouraged to progressively accept all the Charter's provisions.