 Joined-up governance describes a strategy that aims to coordinate the development and implementation of fundamental rights across government structures.

 This is done by developing cooperation and coordination mechanisms and tools that link up efforts on two levels:  multi-level: local, regional, national, EU and international  one-level (cross-sector): different governmental sectors

 making fundamental rights a reality for all

 government departments and agencies  independent bodies  civil society

 EU institutions and governments at all levels should coordinate their work with each other, as well as with other intergovernmental bodies, national human rights institutions (NHRIs) and civil society.

 a tool for effective planning, implementation and monitoring.

 making access to fundamental rights seamless – rather than fragmented – for the individual and society;  eliminating situations where policies undermine one another;  using resources better;  creating synergies through partnerships between stakeholders from different levels and organisations;  helping mainstream fundamental rights concerns across all policy areas.

 Joint commitment and mutual recognition  Division of responsibilities  Sharing resources  Sharing information

 Each sector/level of government is politically committed to joined-up governance for fundamental rights.  Each sector/level is also aware of and explicit about its positions and roles and those of other sectors/levels.

 the responsibilities for fundamental rights policies and actions are effectively distributed between and within levels of governance, avoiding duplication of interventions and ensuring that the rights of all individuals and groups are taken into account.

 Adequate distribution between levels of government

 information must be regularly circulated among all levels and sectors of government.