Public institutions and services are the foundation of the social contract between individuals and the state. Their accessibility, legitimacy, and effective operation enable structural inequalities and breaches of law to be addressed, provide redress for violations and facilitate peaceful resolution of disputes, hence playing a critical role in sustaining accountability and trust, and contributing to the well-being of individuals and societies. Most people are affected by public and private law decisions at some time in their lives, especially as profound changes in society, economics and technology impact their lives. Common approaches at European level help member states design appropriate legislative and policy solutions and strengthen mutual trust and understanding, leading to better regional and cross-border cooperation in rule of law matters.
 

Through its intergovernmental work, the Council of Europe develops and promotes agreed common standards, policies and good practices that contribute to reinforcing the common legal space. Solutions are proposed where gaps, operational problems and obstacles to the ratification and implementation of conventions are identified. In addition, co-operation programmes support justice sector reform in member states especially in the areas of judicial, civil and administrative law and practice in line with Council of Europe standards.

The Council of Europe develops public international law, international criminal justice and other topical issues by assisting member and observer states and international organisations in areas such as immunities, reservations and declarations to international treaties, implementation of international sanctions and respect for human rights, peaceful settlement of disputes including those of a private character, to which an international organisation is a party.