Values and principles of the UK

The United Kingdom expects everyone who lives here to respect and uphold its fundamental values and principles. These values are not optional — they define what it means to be part of British society and are the foundation of life in the UK.

The UK is a parliamentary democracy. The government is elected by the people through free, fair, and open elections. All adults aged 18 and over have the right to vote, and those who are elected are accountable to the people they represent.

General elections must be held at least every five years. Citizens are also free to stand as candidates, campaign for political parties, and take part in public debate.

• The right to vote is a fundamental democratic right.
• You can also stand for election to public office.
• There is no place for extremism or intolerance in a democracy.

Everyone in the UK — citizen, resident, police officer, or government minister — is subject to the rule of law. No one is above the law, and the law must be applied fairly and equally to all.

The courts and judiciary are independent of government. Every person accused of a crime has the right to a fair trial. The principle of the rule of law in Britain can be traced back to Magna Carta in 1215.

Within the law, people in the UK are free to live as they choose. This freedom — known as individual liberty — is a core British value.

The UK protects these key freedoms:

• Freedom of speech — you may express opinions and criticise the government within the law.
• Freedom of the press — the media can report freely on matters of public interest.
• Freedom of peaceful protest — you may gather and demonstrate publicly.
• Freedom of religion — you may follow any faith, or none at all.

The UK is a diverse, multi-cultural society. Mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs is a core principle — and there is absolutely no place for extremism or intolerance.

The Equality Act 2010 makes it unlawful to discriminate against anyone on the grounds of religion, race, sex, age, disability, or sexual orientation. This applies in employment, education, and all public services.

Tolerance means respecting others' right to hold different views and practise different faiths — even when you disagree. Differences are resolved through dialogue, not hostility.

Being part of the UK means more than obeying the law — it means looking after yourself, your family, and the area in which you live, and contributing to the broader community.

The UK has a long tradition of volunteering and civic participation. Ways to get involved include:

• Voting in local and national elections.
• Volunteering with charities, food banks, or local groups.
• Becoming a school governor — a lay member who helps govern a local school.
• Supporting neighbours, particularly older or vulnerable people.
• Joining a residents' association or community council.

These activities strengthen democracy and build mutual respect across communities.

When someone is granted British citizenship, they attend a citizenship ceremony and make a formal commitment to the UK's values. The pledge they make is:

"I will give my loyalty to the United Kingdom and respect its rights and freedoms. I will uphold its democratic values. I will observe its laws faithfully and fulfil my duties and obligations as a British citizen."

New citizens also take an Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance to the Crown. The oath reads:

"I (name) swear by Almighty God that on becoming a British citizen, I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, his Heirs and Successors, according to law."

Those who prefer a secular version may make the affirmation, which carries the same meaning without the religious wording.