My professional career has been rich and varied, with some fascinating experiences along the way. In particular, I remember the fervour and enthusiasm generated by the Vienna Summit in 1993, when the dream of uniting our great European family finally became a reality. Not only did this Summit open the door to new member States, but it also brought institutional changes and significant improvements to the lives of millions of citizens. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Organisation, the Vienna Summit still stands as a major achievement that has had an unprecedented impact.
Another very important theme for me personally and in my career has been gender equality. Admittedly, this has still not been fully achieved and constant vigilance is required, particularly in the economic sphere, but remarkable progress has nevertheless been made.
Another key moment in my career came in 2008 when the “White Paper on Intercultural Dialogue: Living Together as Equals in Dignity” was drawn up, based on the principles of democratic citizenship, human rights and intercultural education. A number of campaigns and initiatives were then launched in Europe, in the Euro-Mediterranean area and far beyond, with the United Nations.
It goes without saying that none of these achievements would have been possible without the professionalism and dedication of all the colleagues who have supported, helped and accompanied me over the years.
Gabriella Battaini-Dragoni has served the Council of Europe for most of her career. She began as a pedagogical adviser before becoming the first-ever female Director General of a Directorate. From 2012 to 2020, she held the position of Deputy Secretary General.
The project “75 women in 75 years of Council of Europe history” is organised by the Delegation of the European Union to the Council of Europe with the Council of Europe and the Permanent Representations of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
