The Council of Europe is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, marking over seven decades of dedication to promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across Europe. This significant milestone will be commemorated with a series of events, conferences, and initiatives reflecting on the Council's rich history and envisioning its future role in addressing contemporary challenges.
The Council of Europe Office in Belgrade marked the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe with a commemorative ceremony for the representatives of the government, the diplomatic corps, the media, the civil sector, partners and counterparts.
For this special occasion, held on 25th June in Belgrade, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić, sent a video message, congratulating on more than two decades of joint efforts in Serbia: “Serbia joined our Organisation in 2003. Since then, it has ratified many of our key conventions and participated in the work of our expert and monitoring bodies, so that our values are translated into positive action."
"For three quarters of a century, the Council of Europe has enabled governments to take the measures they most need to meet European standards. Serbia has its own path on that journey. And we are proud to accompany it“, said the Secretary General.
Janos Babity, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Belgrade, welcomed the guests and reminded of the Organisation’s positive impact on people’s daily lives: “Ever since its foundation, the Council of Europe has always answered the challenges and rallied its member states to build a safer more tolerant and inclusive future together for all of its citizens. Besides the ongoing activities focus will be on the protection of the environment, inclusion of the youth into democratic decision making. We will relentlessly combat verbal and physical violence in school.”
Tanja Miščević, Minister of European Integration of the Republic of Serbia said that "Serbia, as a full member of the Council of Europe, is fully determined to fulfil all obligations from membership in this organisation, which is an important strategic partner for us in implementing reforms from the European integration process. The support of the Council of Europe in the implementation of conventions that guarantee the protection of human rights is important in many ways - both in the initial achievement of the standards of that protection, and now, in the constant monitoring of their development. The expertise we receive from the Council of Europe is a key benchmark for all the reforms we are working on in the areas of protecting human and minority rights, especially Roma rights; strengthening the independence of the judiciary and freedom of expression; in the fight against corruption through the recommendations of GRECO; as well as all other reforms under chapters 23 and 24”.
As we mark this important milestone, we reflect on our enduring mission to protect and promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Our commitment remains as strong as ever, and we look forward to continuing our vital work in partnership with the Republic of Serbia, and the wider international community.
About the Council of Europe:
Founded on May 5, 1949, in the aftermath of World War II, the Council of Europe was established to foster unity and co-operation among European nations and to prevent future conflicts. Today, it remains the continent's leading human rights organisation, comprising 46 member states and advocating for the fundamental rights and freedoms of over 800 million citizens.
All Council of Europe member states have signed the European Convention on Human Rights, a treaty designed to protect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
