The Council of Europe Convention on an integrated safety, security and service approach at football matches and other sports events was opened for signature today at a ceremony held at the Stade de France, in the presence of several European ministers.
The Convention was signed by 14 States: Bulgaria, France, Georgia, Greece, Lithuania, Republic of Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, “the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia” and Ukraine.
“This convention is a major step forward to boost international co-operation needed to make football matches and other sporting events safe, secure and enjoyable for supporters. It’s an opportune moment, with preparations underway for the FIFA 2018 World Cup in Russia, and UEFA’s Euro 2020, which will be held in 13 countries around Europe” – Thorbjørn Jagland, Council of Europe Secretary General. (more...)