What is Democratic Security? How does Democratic Security interact with democracy, human rights and the rule of law? How can the Council of Europe help to foster the capacity of its member states to guarantee security for their citizens through their commitment to democratic norms?

This new series of Debates aims to examine current thinking and dynamics behind the concept of Democratic Security, identify main elements and threats and explore how Democratic Security can strengthen, through different mechanisms related to democracy, human rights and rule of law, peace and stability in Europe.

Co-organised by the Council of Europe and the Ecole Nationale d'Administration (ENA), the debates on democratic security feature eminent personalities from politics, civil society and the academic world. Each time, speakers address in a different way the complexity of issues related to Democratic Security.

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Back Cécile Kyenge on: 'Europe: The Challenge of Inclusive Societies'

Fourteenth Debate on Democratic Security
Cécile Kyenge on: 'Europe: The Challenge of Inclusive Societies'

Ms Kyenge addressed the issues of international migration and the subsequent integration of migrants into European societies, topics which lie at the heart of her political life. She referred to the instruments (or lack thereof) that the EU, and especially her country, Italy, have at their disposal to face those challenges. She observed that the recent rise of populism has encouraged anti-migrant rhetoric, notably in Italy, where the contributions made by migrants often go overlooked.

Ms Kyenge highlighted her everyday battles (personal and public) against racism, xenophobia and injustice, notably in the framework of the ARDI (European Parliament Anti-Racism and Diversity) Intergroup, and offered some suggestions for improving European governance in migratory affairs and integration.

Among other issues, the principle of solidarity between EU countries and towards migrants, the dangers of hate speech, and the effect of Brexit on Europe were raised during the debate.

Ms Kyenge also praised the valuable works of the Council of Europe in respect of these issues, notably its Intercultural Cities initiative, and its contribution to the UN Global Compacts for Migration and Refugees.

 Video recording of the debate

  Audio recording of the debate

Palais de l'Europe, Strasbourg 31 May 2018
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Resources

   Concept paper

   ENA web site

 All debates on democratic security

  Publications