The North-South Centre of the Council of Europe announces the launch of the "North-South Dialogues" with a round table on the theme “Prospects and interregional cooperation for the abolition of death penalty” that will take place on 20 May at 17h00 at the Institute of Political Studies of Universidade Católica (Lisbon).

In the current political climate, characterised by growing tensions and mistrust, the "North-South Dialogues" seek to provide a platform for meaningful discussions on the state of North-South relations. It aims to foster mutual understanding and cooperation between regions while engaging a wide range of countries from both the North and the South.

On the occasion of the Award Ceremony of the 2023 North-South Price of the Council of Europe and inspired by the exemplary laureates, Amina Bouayach, President of the National Human Rights Council of Morocco, and the Global Campus of Human Rights represented by its President, Judge Verónica Gómez, the North-South Centre organises a round table that will address the current status of interregional cooperation and future prospects for the abolition of the death penalty.

The abolition of the death penalty holds significant importance for the Council of Europe, which has been a pioneer in advocating for its eradication and continues to prioritize its abolition on both regional and global political agendas. Ms Bouayach has distinguished herself through her tireless efforts in promoting human rights, gender equality, and torture prevention at regional and continental levels, notably advocating for the abolition of the death penalty. Likewise, the Global Campus of Human Rights brings extensive experience in contributing to the progress made in the field of human rights protection, including the abolition of the death penalty, by emphasizing the urgency and importance of global dialogue.

In addition to the laureates, the conference will also feature the presence of Nuno Sampaio, Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Portugal. The event will count on the participation of Sébastien Potaufeu, Coordinator for the Abolition of the Death Penalty of the Council of Europe, and Ntandokayise Ndlovu, expert of the Working Group on the Death Penalty of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights of the African Union, who will enlarge the perspectives on interregional cooperation through the experience of a Pan-African organisation.

Interpretation is provided in English, French and Portuguese.

 Programme 

 Speakers 

If you are interested in joining on site, contact us at nscinfo@coe.int by 17 May (Registrations limited to room capacity)