Western Heritage in European Union. Legal Values and Intercultural Competence

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between Western heritage, European Union legal values, and intercultural competence as interconnected dimensions of contemporary European integration. It argues that the normative foundations of the European Union are deeply rooted in Greco-Roman philosophy, Judeo-Christian ethics, and Enlightenment thought, which collectively shaped core principles such as sovereignty, democracy, political pluralism, human rights protection, and the rule of law. These principles underpin constitutional pluralism and the multi-level governance structure of the European Union, reflecting both shared values and the autonomy of Member States. The study first analyses the historical development of Western legal culture and its institutional expression within the EU, emphasizing the continued importance of state sovereignty alongside supranational cooperation.
The second part adopts a historical perspective on intercultural competence, demonstrating that the capacity to manage cultural diversity has been a persistent feature of European societies, evident in imperial governance, trade networks, diplomacy, and multinational political entities. These experiences created foundations for modern democratic coexistence across cultural boundaries.
The article then explores intercultural dialogue as a normative framework that translates legal principles—particularly democracy, pluralism, and equality—into everyday social practice through education, policy initiatives, and professional networks. It concludes that intercultural competence represents a practical extension of Western legal heritage, supporting democratic resilience, social cohesion, and inclusive European citizenship in culturally diverse societies.