The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe promotes the territorial dimension of human rights through its statutory work – in particular when monitoring the European Charter of Local Self-Government – as well as through its co-operation and thematic activities.

Local and regional authorities, whose political authorities are accountable to their citizens, play an essential role in the protection of fundamental rights. Indeed, in their functions as mayors, councillors or governors, local and regional elected representatives are responsible for local public services which are inseparable from the implementation of human rights, whether in the fields of housing, healthcare, education, social assistance, security and public order or town planning.