News
Unprecedented support for new convention launching an International Claims Commission
16 December 2025 — The Hague · Thirty-five countries and the European Union* have signed a new convention establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine at a diplomatic conference co-hosted by the 46-nation Council of Europe and the Netherlands in the Hague. The diplomatic conference was attended by leaders and high-level representatives from over 50 states, including the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, and the Prime Minister of the Netherlands,…
Council of Europe and partners working to “support Ukraine in achieving a just and lasting peace”
16 December 2025 — The Hague · Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, Dick Schoof, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the EU, Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova, are among senior politicians from across Europe and beyond who are gathering at the World Forum in The Hague today to launch a new convention setting up an International Claims Commission for Ukraine. The event is…
Council of Europe leaders welcome the release of political prisoners in Belarus
15 December 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe leaders have welcomed the release of 123 political prisoners in Belarus on 13 December, including Maria Kalesnikava and Ales Bialiatski. Secretary General Alain Berset said they were strong advocates for human rights and democracy in their country, and stressed that the Council of Europe will continue to work with Belarusian democratic forces.
Migration challenges: Council of Europe ministers call for political declaration on rights
10 December 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe ministers have called for the preparation of a political declaration on issues related to migration and the European Convention on Human Rights, and a new recommendation on migrant smuggling for 2026, in a set of conclusions adopted by all 46 member states. At a conference held at the initiative of Secretary General Alain Berset, the ministers reaffirmed their deep and abiding commitment to both the European Convention on Human Rights and the European Court of Human Rights,…
Council of Europe ministers to discuss migration and the European Convention on Human Rights
9 December 2025 — Strasbourg · At the initiative of Secretary General Alain Berset, an informal ministerial conference is being held at Council of Europe headquarters in Strasbourg today (Wednesday 10 December) to discuss issues related to migration and the European Convention on Human Rights. A large number of ministers from across the 46 member states have come to Strasbourg to set out their views.
New Council of Europe convention marks milestone in the fight against environmental crime
3 December 2025 — Strasbourg · In a landmark move for global environmental protection, the Convention on the protection of the environment through criminal law was today opened for signature. It provides the foundation for a coherent criminal-justice response by states to environmental crime, including across borders. Two Council of Europe member states – the Republic of Moldova and Portugal – as well as the European Union, signed the treaty today.
Secretary General in Finland: “We need to defend democracy today without compromising the Europe of tomorrow”
28 November 2025 — Helsinki (Finland) · During his two-day visit to Finland, Secretary General Alain Berset stressed the Council of Europe's commitment and unique expertise in seeking accountability mechanisms for Ukraine. This involves a three-pronged approach: the European Court of Human Rights, the Register of Damages, and the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. The next milestone is the upcoming Diplomatic Conference in The Hague on 16 December with the adoption of the Convention on the Claims Commission.
The Council of Europe brings unique expertise in the field to any peace process
26 November 2025 — Strasbourg · Secretary General Alain Berset addressed the Ministers Deputies today, focusing on the ongoing peace talks around Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. In it, Mr Berset detailed the Council of Europe’s ongoing efforts to support Ukraine and what the organisation can bring to reinforce peace in a potential post-war scenario, calling on member and observer states and the European Union to include this is any peace process.
“No woman should live in fear of violence”
24 November 2025 — Strasbourg · Gender-based violence is the number one human rights violation of women in Europe. Democracy rests on the fundamental principle that everyone deserves equal rights and dignity and can live safely and freely. As our democracies are facing new challenges, women’s rights are increasingly called into question On the eve of International Day on the Elimination of Violence against Women, we reaffirm that no woman should live in fear of violence.
Secretary General Alain Berset to pay official visit to Finland
21 November 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset will pay his first official visit to Finland on 27 and 28 November. During the visit, the Secretary General will meet the President of the Republic Alexander Stubb, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen, the Minister of Justice Leena Meri and the Minister of Social Security Sanni Grahn-Laasonen, among others.
Secretary General to visit the Republic of Moldova
18 November 2025 — Strasbourg · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, will pay a visit to the Republic of Moldova on 20 and 21 November, as the country begins its six-month Presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers. During the visit, the Secretary General will meet the President of the Republic, Maia Sandu, and the Prime Minister, Alexandru Munteanu.
Alain Berset addresses science and policymaking at University of Fribourg
13 November 2025 — Strasbourg · On Friday, November 14, 2025, Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe and former Swiss President, presented a public lecture at the University of Fribourg. Under the title “Science, politiques et le temps de la décision. Apprendre du réel” (“Science, policy and the time for decision. Learning from reality”), Berset explored the evolving relationship between science and politics as global challenges reshape our world.
“Environment is the foundation of our rights and freedoms” – Alain Berset
10 November 2025 — Belém, Brazil · The Council of Europe is participating in the United Nations climate change conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, with three side events highlighting how human rights, democracy, and environmental protection are mutually reinforcing pillars for effective climate action. The side events – details below – explore how climate challenges affect fundamental rights, the role of environmental human-rights defenders and disinformation.
Thirtieth anniversary of Ukraine’s membership of the Council of Europe
9 November 2025 — Strasbourg · A European story, a shared future Thirtieth anniversary of Ukraine’s accession to the Council of Europe By Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe Today, we remember the day Ukraine joined the Council of Europe 30 years ago. It was a different Ukraine. It was a different Europe, too. Democracy seemed unstoppable. Freedom and independence were sweeping across our continent.
World Forum for Democracy opens in Strasbourg
5 November 2025 — Strasbourg · The Council of Europe is hosting the annual World Forum for Democracy, an unmissable event bringing together policymakers, campaigners, experts, intellectuals and young people from across the globe. Together, they will examine the causes behind citizens’ disengagement from democracy and seek solutions to strengthen democratic culture, combat disinformation and foster participation.
A democratic compass for Europe, guiding us from the past and into the future
5 November 2025 — Strasbourg · Secretary General Alain Berset has underlined the enduring importance of the European Convention on Human Rights as a democratic compass for the continent. Speaking at a ceremony at the European Court of Human Rights to mark the 75th anniversary of launch of the Convention, the Secretary General underlined its role in protecting the weak, calling the powerful to account and supporting courts across the continent.
Advancing democratic resilience in Europe, boosting cooperation to face new challenges were in focus of the Secretary General’s visit to Vienna
31 October 2025 — Strasbourg · The Council of Europe’s Secretary General, Alain Berset, concluded his visit to Vienna, which focused on the need to renew emphasis on democratic security to guarantee peace and stability in the European continent and effectively address old and new geopolitical challenges Europe faces today. Alain Berset addresses OSCE “Our two organisations are peace projects,” Secretary General Berset stressed in his address to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Permanent…
Secretary General concludes his official visit to Portugal
30 October 2025 — Lisbon (Portugal) · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset has concluded an official visit to Portugal on 28 and 29 October. In Lisbon he met with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic, José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, and the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel.
North-South Prize awarded to Miguel Ángel Moratinos and refugee sports initiative
29 October 2025 — Lisbon (Portugal) · The Council of Europe North-South Prize has been awarded to Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of civilizations, and to an initiative that enables refugees to compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The award ceremony took place at the Portuguese Parliament in Lisbon.
Secretary General to make first official visit to Portugal
28 October 2025 — Lisbon (Portugal) · On 28 and 29 October, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset will pay his first official visit to Portugal since taking office in 2024. In Lisbon, the Secretary General will meet the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic, José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, and the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel.
“Democracy does not play out just in international summits, but in municipal councils too” – Alain Berset
28 October 2025 — Strasbourg · As Secretary General Alain Berset addressed the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, he discussed how fear has entered our democratic system. Rarely can he have had an audience with as sharp an understanding of the problem. “Across our continent,” Mr Berset said, “mayors are being threatened, harassed and stalked, in person and online.” This, he noted was not just a question of private individuals being targeted, as it was a “blow to a principle: that of democratic debate.”
We’re ready to help put historic new recommendation on equal rights for intersex people into practice – Secretary General
27 October 2025 — Strasbourg · “The Recommendation on equal rights for intersex persons is historic - not because it creates new standards, but because it makes existing ones impossible to ignore”, said the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, at the event to launch the landmark document. “It builds on core human rights principles: bodily integrity and autonomy, free and informed consent, protection from inhuman treatment, children’s participation, equality and non-discrimination, and participation in…
First Council of Europe Business and Human Rights Forum
21 October 2025 — Strasbourg · The first Council of Europe Business and Human Rights Forum – BRAVE 2025 – brought together today in Strasbourg policy makers and representatives of leading companies and business associations to explore ways to strengthen cooperation in integrating human rights, democracy and rule of law into their operations. The event highlighted the Council of Europe’s standards and activities that have an impact on business practices, including the European Convention on Human Rights – and its…
Advancing health as a human right
15 October 2025 — Strasbourg · The Council of Europe’s conference on the protection of health has just taken place, showcasing the panoply of work that the organisation is doing in the area of healthcare. There is a lot to show. Health is a human right. The organisation has been involved in a huge range of activities in the area, from ethical use of AI in treatment and ensuring the quality of medicines in Europe, to legally defining the line between freedom of expression and medical disinformation.
In Switzerland, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset concludes his official visit by reaffirming the European partnership around shared values
13 October 2025 — Bern · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset paid an official visit to Switzerland today. In Bern, he met with President of the Swiss Confederation Karin Keller-Sutter, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, President of the National Council Maja Riniker, and Federal Chancellor Viktor Rossi. He also held discussions with Raphaël Bez, Secretary General of the European Movement Switzerland.
Secretary General: Protection of health is vital for a healthy democracy
13 October 2025 — Strasbourg · “Health is a measure of democratic resilience”, says Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, in an article entitled “Health in the age of disinformation: Protecting truth, protecting democracy”, published to mark the World Health Summit taking place in Berlin. In today’s world, our resilience is being sorely tested — by disinformation, diminishing access to health services and by climate change — making it difficult for patients to know what to believe and whom to trust. And…
Ceremony for the 35th Anniversary of the Venice Commission: the Council of Europe’s body of constitutional experts
11 October 2025 — Strasbourg · The European Commission for Democracy through Law (better known as the Venice Commission), the Council of Europe’s advisory body on constitutional matters, celebrates its 35th anniversary of advising countries on constitutional and legal reforms with a ceremony on 11 October in Venice (Palazzo Ducale, Sala dello Scrutinio, 11 am-3 pm), in the presence of the President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella. Secretary General Alain Berset provides a welcome address, following institutional…
Youth Ministers call for democratic renewal: Europe’s future must be built with young people
10 October 2025 — Valletta (Malta) · Increasing confidence, improving quality and strengthening the resilience of European democracies through stronger youth participation, drawing on the Council of Europe’s New Democratic Pact for Europe, was the key objective of the 10th Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth, which concludes in Valletta today. At their first gathering in 13 years, Ministers adopted a Final Declaration and a Resolution on a Youth Perspective, pledging to put young people at the heart of Europe’s…
Secretary General: Organ donation depends on trust. We must defend it.
10 October 2025 — Strasbourg · “Organ, tissue and cell donation gives countless people across Europe a second chance at life. But this act of solidarity is under threat. Criminal networks are misusing digital platforms to advertise and arrange illicit organ transplants abroad. They exploit donors, endanger recipients, and break the trust that makes legitimate transplantation possible. This must stop.
Statement of Secretary General Alain Berset on the Gaza agreement
9 October 2025 — Strasbourg · “I welcome the agreement towards a ceasefire reached today between Israel and Hamas. “For the first time in two years, a path to peace is opening. The human cost, especially to civilians, has been enormous. These actions constitute unjustifiable violations of universal human rights and international law. The Council of Europe expresses its deep solidarity with all victims of this conflict.
European and World Day against the Death Penalty, 10 October 2025: Joint statement by the High Representative of the European Union and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe
9 October 2025 — Strasbourg · The European Union (EU) and the Council of Europe strongly reaffirm their unequivocal opposition to the death penalty, in all cases and in all circumstances. More than two-thirds of all countries have abolished the death penalty in law or in practice. In 2024, we welcomed the abolition of the death penalty by Zimbabwe, and the ratification of the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights by Zambia and Côte d'Ivoire. The same year, a record number of…
Youth and experience, side by side, working towards democracy: the 10th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth opened in Malta
9 October 2025 — Valletta (Malta) · "Youth must be present in everything we do,” said the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, in his opening speech at the youth Ministerial conference today. “We need to build a bridge across the gap between generations that threatens to pull us apart – this is why we must genuinely listen to young people, setting aside our prejudices – and even some of our own experiences.
“Youth perspectives in every decision – that is the spirit of the New Democratic Pact for Europe”
8 October 2025 — Malta · Young people are shaping 21st-century Europe in the streets, in universities, and online, and this is the new generation that will make the European project stronger, underlined Council of Europe Secretary General, Alain Berset, in his exchanges with young people in Malta today. Addressing students at the University of Malta, the Secretary General stressed that our time “is the age of democratic security – not the old era of ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ security.
Democratic security: Europe’s strategic imperative
8 October 2025 — Malta · Secretary General Alain Berset issued a stark reminder to the Ministers’ Deputies of the seriousness of the situation of democracy in Europe, stating that “If rearmament takes place without strong democratic safeguards, there is a real risk that, tomorrow, extremist or authoritarian governments could use that power against our own values.” The meeting took place in Malta as part of that country’s Presidency of the Committee of Ministers.
Council of Europe adopts landmark Recommendation on equal rights for intersex persons
8 October 2025 — Strasbourg · The Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers has adopted a new Recommendation to member states on equal rights for intersex persons (Recommendation CM/Rec(2025)7), marking a historic milestone for equality, dignity, and human rights of intersex people across Europe. This is the first comprehensive international legal instrument specifically dedicated to the human rights of intersex persons. Having been adopted by 46 member States of the Council of Europe, the Recommendation provides clear…
Military security and democratic security: the same battle for the future of Europe
3 October 2025 — Copenhagen · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has made a two-day visit to Denmark, during which he took part in the seventh meeting of the European Political Community (EPC) on 2 October and undertook an official visit on 3 October. Participation in the European Political Community At the EPC summit, the Secretary General reiterated his central message: military security and democratic security must go hand in hand. He warned that a Europe investing massively in defence, but…
Secretary General condemns attack on Manchester synagogue
2 October 2025 — Strasbourg · "I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms. It strikes at the heart of the Jewish community on Yom Kippur, and it will be felt far beyond Manchester across Britain and Europe. But ultimately, it is an attack on us all and on the values of tolerance and respect that bind our societies together. “Political violence and hate crimes are rising across our continent. We must be clear: they have no place in Europe. We must redouble our efforts to strengthen our democracies so that…
Secretary General Alain Berset takes questions from members of the Parliamentary Assembly
1 October 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset took questions from members of the Parliamentary Assembly in his traditional Q&A during the autumn plenary session. Watch the Q&A session in full here
Secretary General to attend European Political Community meeting in Copenhagen and pay official visit to Denmark
27 September 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset will participate in the 7th meeting of the European Political Community (EPC), organised by Denmark in the framework of its Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The event will bring together European leaders to discuss support for Ukraine, security and resilience, and Europe’s response to today’s geopolitical challenges.
Secretary General Alain Berset concludes mission to UNGA80 with calls for democratic security, accountability, and reinforced global cooperation
26 September 2025 — New York · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset wrapped up a full week of high-level diplomacy at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). From the plight of Ukrainian children to the defence of democracy, the risks and opportunities of artificial intelligence, our joint actions with the UN on gender equality and counter-terrorism, and new global partnerships, the Council of Europe used its voice to bring European values into global debates.
Secretary General speech to Columbia University
25 September 2025 — New York · As part of the United Nations General Assembly week, Secretary General Alain Berset delivered the keynote address to Columbia University in New York on the “The Age of Democratic Security”. Watch the speech The New Democratic Pact for Europe
The European Day of Languages: celebrating 25 years of motivating Europe to learn languages
25 September 2025 — Strasbourg · “2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the European Day of Languages, a celebration of Europe’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity and a powerful reminder of the importance of language learning for democratic participation, inclusion, and mutual understanding. Europe’s multilingual heritage is one of its greatest strengths. The Council of Europe actively promotes and protects this diversity, recognising that the teaching and learning of multiple languages is not a cultural luxury, but a…
For women’s rights and dignity: a call from the Council of Europe
23 September 2025 — New York · As Secretary General Berset arrived in New York for the United Nations General Assembly week, he took part in the High-Level Conference on the Thirtieth Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, representing a European organisation pivotal to the global multilateral system. He underscored how the Council of Europe’s values – human rights, democracy, and the rule of law – are at the centre of progress for women and girls:
Democratic security: Secretary General to promote the core foundations of peace at the UN General Assembly week in New York
19 September 2025 — Strasbourg · Secretary General Alain Berset will stress the importance of a renewed international commitment to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in strengthening global security at the UN General Assembly High-level Week 2025 in New York from 22 to 26 September. Ahead of the visit, the Secretary General said: “The Council of Europe, with its 46 member states, has a unique role in global affairs: to defend the values that protect human dignity, strengthen democratic institutions and ensure…
European countries come together to fight organised crime
19 September 2025 — Malta · Following the adoption of a new declaration designed to improve cooperation in cross-border crime, Secretary General Alain Berset stated that “Organised crime exploits digital technology and knows no borders – no country can fight it alone. Only strong international cooperation can stop it. The Council of Europe is leading the way by adapting legal standards to today’s challenges and uniting countries in the fight against crime in the digital age”.
Alain Berset in Cyprus: strengthening democratic security and common values
9 September 2025 — Cyprus · On his first official visit to Cyprus as Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset underlined the importance of democratic security at a time of democratic backsliding across Europe. Taking place within his first year in office and in the run-up to Cyprus’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, the visit carried particular significance.
The European and global order faces a direct challenge by force
2 September 2025 — Strasbourg · “Let us look at the facts.” With these words, Secretary General Alain Berset reopened the Council of Europe’s weekly meeting of Ministers’ Deputies in Strasbourg, marking the return from recess with a candid look at Europe’s most pressing tests. The postwar European and global order faces a direct challenge by force. In Ukraine, a dragging and intensifying war. In the South Caucasus, a long-awaited peace in the making. In the Balkans, tensions on the edge. In Gaza, a human tragedy with no end…
Council of Europe stands with Ukraine, says Secretary General on Independence Day
25 August 2025 — Strasbourg · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has expressed solidarity with the people of Ukraine on their Independence Day on 24 August. This message comes amid continued attacks and ongoing peace talks concerning Ukraine’s future: “Dear Ukrainians! You belong in our European family — today and always. On this Independence Day, the Council of Europe stands with you. In war, for justice and into peace. A just and lasting peace — in Ukraine, with Europe, on the values we share.…
Secretary General Alain Berset on Alaska talks: The war must end — and it must end fairly
11 August 2025 — Strasbourg · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, made the following statement today: “When the eyes of the world turn to the peace talks in Alaska on Friday, we will face a single question: will peace in Ukraine be built on justice or shaped by concessions to aggression? The line between pragmatism and fairness is thin, and President Trump’s efforts to stop the killings while not conceding to aggression are commendable. The position of the Council of Europe is clear: peace must be…
Armenia and Azerbaijan: A milestone on the road to lasting peace
8 August 2025 — Strasbourg · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has made the following statement: “I warmly welcome today’s initialing of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement in Washington DC, which paves the way towards a final settlement of the long-standing conflict between the countries – both member states of the Council since 2001.
European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day
1 August 2025 — Strasbourg · “On the night of 2–3 August 1944, more than 3,000 Roma men, women and children were murdered at Auschwitz-Birkenau. This atrocity marked one of the darkest chapters of the Roma Holocaust, in which up to 500,000 Roma were persecuted and killed by the Nazi regime. This year also marks the 10th anniversary since 2 August was officially recognised as European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day. This long-overdue recognition was a crucial step toward acknowledging the suffering of Roma communities and…
Secretary General Alain Berset at Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome
11 July 2025 — Rome (Italy) · “Without justice, there is no recovery. Without institutions, there is no trust. And without law, no lasting peace is possible”, said Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset at the 2025 (URC2025), co-hosted by Italy and Ukraine. Speaking on the panel on Strengthening Rule of Law Through Integrity and Enforcement Efforts, Alain Berset emphasised that rebuilding Ukraine must begin with trust in public institutions and the rule of law.
Le Secrétaire Général, Alain Berset, à la Conférence sur le redressement de l’Ukraine à Rome
10.07.2025 — Rome (Italie) · Le Secrétaire Général, Alain Berset, participera à la Conférence sur le redressement de l'Ukraine 2025 (URC2025), organisée conjointement par l'Italie et l'Ukraine. Après les rendez-vous de Lugano, de Londres et de Berlin, la conférence réunira des dirigeants politiques mondiaux, des représentants d'organisations internationales et d'institutions financières, des acteurs du secteur privé, des autorités locales et régionales et des membres de la société civile et de la diaspora ukrainienne.
Conference in Strasbourg takes stock of the situation of the children of Ukraine three and a half years into the war
9 July 2025 — Strasbourg · Opening a conference in Strasbourg on 9 July to take stock of the situation of the children of Ukraine, Council of Europe’s Secretary General Alain Berset, recalled the thousands of children from Ukraine who have suffered deportation or are still displaced, the many who have lost years of education, and the far too many who have lost “homes, families, limbs — even their lives.”
“We must close the gap between law and practice in countering sexual violence against children,” says Secretary General at Lanzarote Convention event in Malta
1 July 2025 — Valletta (Malta) · Opening the Informal Conference of Ministers responsible for children’s rights, Council of Europe Secretary General, Alain Berset has reaffirmed the Organisation’s commitment to the protection of children against sexual violence. The conference marks the 15th anniversary of the Council of Europe’s Lanzarote Convention. “Fifteen years on, the Lanzarote Convention remains the only legally binding treaty dedicated to protecting children from sexual exploitation and abuse,” stated Secretary…
Ukraine and the Council of Europe sign Agreement on establishing a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine
25 June 2025 — Strasbourg · Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, have signed an agreement on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, including the Statute of the Special Tribunal. Yesterday, the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers, composed of representatives of its 46 member states, authorised Secretary General Berset to sign the agreement.
Secretary General responds to questions at the Parliamentary Assembly summer session
25 June 2025 — Strasbourg · During a lively Q & A session with parliamentarians, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset underlined the organisation’s unique role in holding Russia to account, through the Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. The Secretary General said that once the agreement was signed, it was vital to move at speed to encourage as many countries as possible to join the enlarged partial agreement.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset to sign agreement on a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine in Strasbourg
24 June 2025 — Strasbourg · Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, will sign an agreement on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine in Strasbourg on Wednesday 25 June. The Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers today authorised Secretary General Berset to sign the agreement, which includes the Statute of the Special Tribunal.
President Zelenskyy to make first visit to Council of Europe in Strasbourg amid escalating war in Ukraine
23 June 2025 — Strasbourg · This first visit comes as Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine intensifies, marked by some of the deadliest attacks since the start of the full-scale invasion on 24 February 2022. President Zelenskyy will address the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, presided over by Ian Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism. The Committee of Ministers is finalising the legal instruments necessary to launch the Special Tribunal for the Crime of…
Democracy Hackathon: Winning Team announced!
20 June 2025 — Strasbourg · Secretary General Alain Berset has announced the winner of the first-ever democracy hackathon, at the end of a flagship event held as part of the New Democratic Pact for Europe. First prize: ‘The Fact-Checking Foxes’ (Italy) The top prize (3,000€) was awarded to The Fact-Checking Foxes for their innovative classroom solution that proposes to use game-based pre-bunking to help adolescents develop critical thinking skills by analyzing real-world false claims.
Council of Europe Secretary General welcomes the memorandum adopted by Belarusian democratic forces to abolish the death penalty in Belarus
19 June 2025 — Strasbourg · The Belarusian democratic forces adopted a Memorandum on the Abolition of the Death Penalty in Belarus; the document was passed by the Coordination Council on 17 June 2025 and joined by the United Transitional Cabinet and the Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. “Abolishing the death penalty is at the core of the Council of Europe action. I welcome the Memorandum which is a strong step forward in the fight for human rights, democracy, and dignity,” said Secretary General Alain Berset.
World Refugee Day: Council of Europe and UNHCR call for solidarity and action
19 June 2025 — Strasbourg · Nearly 12 million refugees have found protection in the 46 member states of the Council of Europe. On World Refugee Day, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi reaffirm that this solidarity stands as a vital expression of shared European values, as conflicts and persecution continue to force millions from their homes.
“Hate speech is a challenge to democracy itself” – Council of Europe Secretary General opens No Hate Speech Week in Strasbourg
18 June 2025 — Strasbourg · “Hate speech is not an isolated issue, but a part of a deeper challenge - to trust, to truth, to democracy itself,” stated Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset at the opening of the No Hate Speech Week in Strasbourg today. “We at the Council of Europe are working towards a New Democratic Pact for Europe, and hate speech has to be part of that conversation”. See the full speech here.
Official Visit of the Secretary General to the Holy See – Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
17 June 2025 — Vatican City · Secretary General Alain Berset paid an official visit to the Holy See, where he was received in audience by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. The Secretary General conveyed his warmest congratulations to His Holiness on his election and took the opportunity to reaffirm the deep appreciation of the Council of Europe for the Holy See’s longstanding and meaningful engagement in its work over more than five decades.
Gaza: Secretary General Alain Berset calls for an immediate ceasefire, full and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance, and the urgent resumption of a credible political process
13 June 2025 — Strasbourg · The latest attacks by Israel on Iran, which threaten the stability of the entire region, must not make us lose sight of the fact that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached an intolerable level of severity. The killing and injuring of civilians, including those seeking humanitarian assistance, are unacceptable acts of brutality. The Council of Europe expresses its deep solidarity with all victims of this conflict.
Secretary General Alain Berset voices strong support for reform and peace at conclusion of first visit to Armenia
13 June 2025 — Yerevan (Armenia) · On his first visit to Armenia as Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset reaffirmed the Organisation’s unwavering support for the country’s democratic development and called for the swift signature of a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. “The pace of development, the direction of democratic reforms, and the pragmatic approach taken by the authorities are encouraging signs of Armenia’s ongoing democratic engagement,” Alain Berset said at the close of his two-day…
Council of Europe Secretary General to visit Armenia on 11-12 June
10 June 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset will visit Armenia on 11–12 June for a series of meetings. The Secretary General will meet with President Vahagn Khachaturyan, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, President of the National Assembly Alen Simonyan, and Minister of Justice Srbuhi Galyan. He will also deliver a public lecture and meet students at Yerevan State University.
Maltese Presidency Highlights Rule of Law: “A User’s Guide”
5 June 2025 — Strasbourg · On 4 June the exhibition “A User’s Guide to the Rule of Law” was inaugurated at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. It showcases the crucial role that the rule of law plays in citizens’ daily lives. Marking the 35th anniversary of the Council of Europe’s Venice Commission, the event is a joint initiative with the Maltese Presidency of the Committee of Ministers (May–November 2025). It demonstrates why the rule of law is fundamental to protecting individual freedoms and sustaining modern…
Global cybercrime experts meet at Council of Europe 2025 conference
4 June 2025 — Strasbourg · From 4 to 6 June 2025, the Council of Europe is bringing together over 500 leading cybercrime experts from around the world in Strasbourg to address current challenges, review the global landscape of cybercrime legislation, exchange knowledge, sharpen tools and reinforce partnerships and international co-operation. Strengthening cyber and democratic security
Secretary General at Struthof: a visit to keep remembrance alive among young people
3 June 2025 — Strasbourg · On 3 June Secretary General Alain Berset visited the former concentration camp at Natzweiler-Struthof (Alsace), an iconic memorial site, to reaffirm the importance of history teaching and remembrance of the Holocaust for younger generations. After a moment of quiet reflection, the Secretary General and the President of the European Territorial Authority of Alsace (CEA), Frédéric Bierry, addressed secondary school pupils.
Secretary General highlights Kazakhstan–Council of Europe cooperation as a pillar of regional and European stability
31 May 2025 — Astana (Kazakhstan) · In the face of the current crisis which no country or organisation can face alone, a global strategy to protect the rule of law in our democracies is indispensable, and multilateralism and co-operation should be at the heart of this strategy. This was the key message delivered by the Council of Europe Secretary General, Alain Berset, to his high-level interlocutors during the official two-day visit to Kazakhstan which concluded today.
Council of Europe Secretary General to visit Kazakhstan on 29-30 May
28 May 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General, Alain Berset is making an official visit to Astana, Kazakhstan, on 29-30 May. He will have a series of high-level bilateral meetings, participate in the Astana International Forum, and open the conference on the Council of Europe Neighbourhood Co-Operation Priorities with Kazakhstan 2024–2027 held in the framework of the Forum.
Anti-racism commission: Racial profiling by police, segregation of Roma pupils and transphobia among key challenges
28 May 2025 — Strasbourg · In its annual report for 2024 the Council of Europe’s anti-racism body, the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI), has outlined tackling racial profiling by law enforcement officials, addressing the segregation of Roma children at school, ensuring equal rights and dignity for transgender and intersex persons, and strengthening national equality bodies as four key policy challenges for European states. Positive policy developments are also highlighted in the report.
Alain Berset on the joint letter challenging the European Court of Human Rights
24 May 2025 — Strasbourg · On 22 May 2025, at the initiative of Denmark and Italy, nine Council of Europe member states — including Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland — issued a joint letter calling for a “new and open-minded conversation” about how the European Court of Human Rights interprets the European Convention on Human Rights.
The Council of Europe stands with those working for LGBTI equality, says Secretary General at IDAHOT+ Forum in Malta
20 May 2025 — Valetta (Malta) · Defending the rights of LGBTI persons is not a niche issue, but a test of whether Europe as a continent still believes in the universality of human rights, said Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset, in a video message to the participants of the IDAHOT+ Forum in Valetta. Hosted by the Government of Malta under its Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe and co-organised by the Council of Europe’s SOGIESC[1] Unit, the Forum marks the International Day Against…
Secretary General at 2025 Cannes Film Festival: a strategic presence for culture and democracy in Europe
16 May 2025 — Cannes · The Secretary General Alain Berset will attend the 78th Cannes Film Festival on 17 and 18 May 2025 to reaffirm the key role of culture in revitalising democracy and support European film making. “Culture, like democracy, is essential – not a luxury,” Berset said ahead of the festival. “Culture gives everyone – regardless of identity, origins, or belief – a voice in our shared story.”
Secretary General to highlight democratic security at EPC Summit
15 May 2025 — Tirana · Against the backdrop of war, democratic backsliding, and accelerating disruption in Europe and the world, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset will join over 40 European heads of state and government at the sixth European Political Community (EPC) Summit, hosted on 16 May in Tirana, Albania. Under the Summit’s theme, “New Europe in a New World: Unity – Co-operation – Joint Action”, Secretary General Berset will underscore the Council of Europe’s commitment to strengthening its role…
Secretary General 2025 Report
12 May 2025 — Strasbourg · “Today, Europe faces a perfect storm – war, shifting geopolitics, democratic backsliding, rising impunity, climate crisis, disinformation, rapid technological change, and a retreat from co-operation into nationalism and protectionism. It threatens to undo the peace, stability, and hard-won progress the Council of Europe has helped deliver across an entire continent over the past 75 years”, stated Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset in the introduction to the 2025 Report, entitled…
Secretary General highlights next steps on Special Tribunal for Ukraine in moment of unity in Lviv
9 May 2025 — Lviv · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has made the following statement concerning the political backing expressed today for the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine: “Today’s event in Lviv demonstrates our unity and resolve to ensure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. “Ukraine is part of our European family and remains the Council of Europe’s top priority. We have already developed an Action Plan on Resilience, Recovery and Reconstruction. We…
On the passing of Pope Francis: a peacemaker and a leader of our times
21 April 2025 — Strasbourg · Today, on Easter Monday, a sacred day of reflection in the Christian tradition, the world has lost a peacemaker. The Council of Europe mourns the passing of Pope Francis, head of the Roman Catholic Church and of the Holy See, one of our Observer States, and a fervent defender of European values. Reflecting on the legacy of the post-war generation, Pope Francis reminded us during his last visit to our Organisation in 2014 that our founding fathers’ project was to “rebuild Europe in a spirit of…
Strengthening values-based diplomacy in times of crisis: the voice of the Council of Europe at the Antalya Forum
13 April 2025 — Antalya, Türkiye · On the occasion of his first participation in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset held a wide range of bilateral meetings and diplomatic exchanges focused on the major challenges facing democracy, human rights and the rule of law. During his visit to Antalya on 12 and 13 April 2025, Secretary General Alain Berset took part in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, organised by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This high-level annual gathering brought…
Statement by the Secretary General on the situation in Türkiye
13 April 2025 — Antalya, Türkiye · "I am closely following the recent events in Türkiye, including the arrest and detention of Istanbul’s Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and other elected officials. These developments have triggered nationwide protests, the detention of journalists, and allegations of disproportionate use of force by law enforcement authorities. Without prejudice to pending judicial proceedings, the rights protected under the European Convention on Human Rights — including freedom of expression and of the media, the right…
Official visit to Paris by Secretary General: support for Ukraine and New Democratic Pact for Europe
11 April 2025 — Paris · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset has concluded an official visit to Paris during which he discussed support for Ukraine, democratic security and the Council of Europe’s role on the European and international arena. In his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, the Secretary General discussed various current geopolitical issues, as well as the role of the Council of Europe as a central actor for democratic security, supporting the continent’s peace and stability.
Alain Berset: “Health is our most precious gift, and a top concern for all Europeans”
4 April 2025 — Strasbourg · “Health is our most precious gift — and a top concern for all Europeans. For the Council of Europe, health is also a fundamental human right, protected by our two main human rights treaties: the European Convention on Human Rights and the European Social Charter. This right belongs to everyone across our 46 member states, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex characteristics, disability, ethnic or national origin, race, religion, language, income, or background.
Secretary General Alain Berset in Montenegro: supporting reforms, strengthening democracy
4 April 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset concluded a two-day official visit to Montenegro. He reaffirmed the Organisation’s strong partnership with the country and acknowledged its ongoing reform efforts in the fields of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. During his visit the Secretary General held high-level meetings with the President of Montenegro, Mr Jakov Milatović, the Prime Minister, Mr Milojko Spajić, the Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, Mr Filip…
Secretary General’s first official visit to Norway: strengthening democratic resilience and enhancing cooperation
25 March 2025 — Strasbourg · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset made his first official visit to Norway from 24 to 25 March, where he discussed strengthening Europe’s democratic resilience and deepening cooperation on common challenges. In meetings with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, Secretary General Berset explored the current challenges to multilateralism, the key geopolitical developments in Europe and beyond, as well as a potential enhanced role for the…
Special Tribunal for Ukraine: Secretary General welcomes completion of technical discussions
21 March 2025 — Strasbourg · “I welcome the successful outcome of the Core Group’s meeting and the finalisation of the necessary technical legal documents for the establishment of the Special Tribunal within the framework of the Council of Europe. “The Council of Europe stands ready to put the Special Tribunal swiftly in place. It is now for states to demonstrate the political will to ensure the establishment of the Special Tribunal.”
Secretary General: More needs to be done to implement ECHR judgments
19 March 2025 — Strasbourg · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has called for further efforts to implement judgments from the European Court of Human Rights. Commenting on the annual report for 2024 on the execution of the Court’s rulings, published, the Secretary General said: “This report shows what a concrete, positive impact judgments from the European Court of Human Rights have on the daily lives of the people of Europe. While a lot has been achieved, more needs to be done. The efficient…
Armenia and Azerbaijan: statement by Secretary General Alain Berset
14 March 2025 — Strasbourg · The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has welcomed the announcements of Armenia and Azerbaijan on the finalisation of negotiations on the draft Agreement on Peace and Establishment of Interstate Relations. When joining the Council of Europe in 2001, both countries pledged to work towards peaceful cooperation. This draft Agreement is evidence of the will in both member states to fulfil this potential and build a stable and lasting peace in the region. It is now crucial to…
Secretary General Alain Berset expresses his sadness over death of Walter Schwimmer, Secretary General from 1999 to 2004
13 March 2025 — Strasbourg · Walter Schwimmer – a visionary for European unity in the face of multiple challenges and steadfast defender of our human rights values – passed away yesterday. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. We will never forget his forthright calls for European unity when challenges arose – and his tenure as Secretary General saw many. The Council of Europe sent observers to the Chechen-Russian conflict to ensure human rights and freedoms in the Chechen Republic. The world…
Women as equal partners in the AI revolution: a call for gender equality in the digital age
5 March 2025 — Strasbourg · “The AI and digital revolution must also be a revolution for gender equality,” says Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset ahead of International Women’s Day. “Together, we can break down barriers to build a future where women and girls lead, innovate, and drive the digital world forward,” he continues, calling for greater gender equality in the AI and digital world.
Secretary General calls for the universal abolition of the death penalty at the Human Rights Council in Geneva
26 February 2025 — Geneva · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset has concluded his official visit to Geneva, which took place from 24 to 26 February 2025. The visit was marked by several speeches and ministerial meetings at the Human Rights Council, reiterating the Council of Europe’s commitment to human rights, democracy and the rule of law. It also provided an opportunity to give a lecture at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID), and to build bilateral contacts.
Council of Europe marks third anniversary of start of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine
24 February 2025 — Strasbourg · To mark the third anniversary of the start of the Russian Federation’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the Ministers’ Deputies (ambassadors) have held an extraordinary meeting focusing on Ukrainian civilians held prisoner by the authorities of the Russian Federation. At this meeting, a Ukrainian woman who was held in Donetsk pretrial detention centre and released in October 2022 and the daughter of a Ukrainian citizen held in prison shared their moving stories.
The fight for Ukraine is a fight for justice: Secretary General releases report on Council of Europe’s response to Russia’s war on Ukraine
21 February 2025 — Strasbourg · Ahead of 24 February 2025, that marks the third anniversary of the start of Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset has released a report highlighting the organisation’s action since the first day of the war to help its member state Ukraine. “Each day that Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues, lives are lost, children’s futures are stolen, destruction spreads, and the very foundations of international law and the…
Secretary General on official visit to Geneva from 24 to 26 February
18 February 2025 — geneva · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset will pay an official visit to Geneva, Switzerland, from 24 to 26 February as part of the process of stepping up co-operation between the Council of Europe and the international institutions based there. The programme will begin on 24 February with a lecture at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID), in which the Secretary General will discuss the key issues relating to human rights, democracy and the rule of law…
Secretary General on official visit to Republic of Moldova pledges continued support to the country’s reforms, European aspirations
12 February 2025 — Chisinau · The Council of Europe Secretary General, Alain Berset, has started today his first official two-day visit to the Republic of Moldova. The goal is to reiterate the Council of Europe’s commitment to strengthening co-operation with the country, including in the framework of the Action Plan for 2025-2028 that has been officially launched in Chisinau today at an event with the participation of President Maia Sandu.
Canada and Japan sign Council of Europe’s first ever global treaty on AI
11 February 2025 — Paris · Canada and Japan have signed the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of law, joining the eleven signatories that have already signed this international treaty. The signing ceremony took place prior to the Council of Europe’s side event, which focused on African engagement in global AI governance, organised as part of the AI Action Summit hosted by France.
Secretary General expresses his concerns about Georgian Government’s reversal on the ‘foreign influence’ law
7 February 2025 — Strasbourg · On 3 February, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, spoke by telephone with the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, to discuss the status of the joint working group aimed at amending the so-called ‘foreign influence’ law. The decision to set up the group had been taken by mutual agreement during the Secretary General’s visit to Tbilisi on 20 December 2024. On 20 January, the Secretariat sent a letter formally requesting the establishment of the working group.…
Special Envoy of Council of Europe Secretary General on the situation of children of Ukraine appointed
5 February 2025 — Strasbourg · Secretary General Alain Berset has appointed Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjord Gylfadóttir (Iceland) as his Special Envoy on the situation of children of Ukraine. She will raise awareness of the challenges faced by the children of Ukraine and of the Council of Europe’s standards and initiatives to support them, foster international co-operation and ensure internal co-ordination, including with the Register of Damage caused by the aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, and the…
Secretary General welcomes major step towards creating a Special Tribunal for Ukraine
4 February 2025 — Bruxelles · Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset has welcomed a major step forward in Brussels today towards creating a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, within the framework of the Council of Europe. The 13th meeting of the international Core Group* of senior legal experts laid down the legal foundations of the Special Tribunal, including key elements of its statute.
Council of Europe Pays Tribute to Former German President Horst Köhler
2 February 2025 — Strasbourg · The Council of Europe pays tribute to former German President Horst Köhler, a distinguished statesman and committed European. Throughout his career, he demonstrated remarkable leadership and integrity, serving as head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and governor of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) before reaching the highest office in the Federal Republic of Germany.
Joint statement by Secretary General Alain Berset and Chief Rabbi Israel Meir Lau on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau
29 January 2025 — strasbourg · Eighty years have passed since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, but the deep wound it left in our collective consciousness is still raw. This sombre anniversary is for all the victims. More than 1.1 million people were murdered at Auschwitz-Birkenau, including nearly one million Jews. In the face of evil and intolerance, they offered innocence and dignity. Their sacrifice will live on forever. We repeat their names. To them, we pledge: we will not forget you.
Council of Europe deeply concerned that yet another election that was neither free nor fair took place in Belarus on 26 January
29 January 2025 — Strasbourg · In a democratic society, elections must guarantee the free expression of will of all its members and plurality of views. Respect for the right to freedom of expression, assembly and association is critical to their democratic legitimacy. Regrettably, the authorities in Belarus have systematically and deliberately trampled on these universal principles, with the latest elections being no exception. Lack of a timely invitation by the authorities to independent observers from the Office of…
Secretary General calls for stronger democracy and dialogue in address to Parliamentary Assembly
28 January 2025 — Strasbourg · 80 Years After Auschwitz: A Call for Democracy and Collective Vigilance This week marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp—a solemn reminder of one of the darkest chapters in our shared history. But in 2024, we also celebrate the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights, one of Europe’s greatest achievements. These milestones urge us to reflect: Where have we been? And where do we want to go?
80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camp
27 January 2025 — Strasbourg · Inauguration of the Memorial Garden on the site of the former Synagogue at Quai Kléber, Strasbourg Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister for Equality between Women and Men and the Fight against Discrimination, Ms Bergé, Mayor of Strasbourg, Ms Barseghian, President of the Israelite Consistory of the Bas-Rhin, Mr Dahan, Chief Rabbi of Strasbourg and the Bas-Rhin, Mr Weill,