Council of Europe News

European Court of Human Rights Rulings Implementation Report

The Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers reported that 949 European Court of Human Rights cases were closed in 2025, an increase from the previous year. While progress was noted across many member states, significant challenges remain, including the complexity of incoming cases and over 500 leading cases pending for more than five years.

Congress Session Covers Ukraine Reconstruction, Georgia Local Democracy

The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe will hold its 50th session from March 31 to April 2, 2026. The agenda includes discussions on Ukraine's reconstruction, local democracy in Georgia, social rights, and the European Charter of Local Self-Government.

Council of Europe Convention on Series Co-production Signed

Nine countries have signed the new Council of Europe Convention on the co-production of audiovisual works in the form of series. This treaty aims to strengthen cross-border cooperation, support independent producers, and promote diverse European storytelling in the global audiovisual market. The convention will enter into force upon ratification by three member states.

Ukraine Entrepreneurs Can Claim Damages for Russia's Aggression

The Council of Europe's Register of Damage for Ukraine has introduced a new claim category (A3.5) for individual entrepreneurs in Ukraine whose profits were negatively affected by Russia's aggression on or after February 24, 2022. Over 130,000 claims have already been filed with the Register, which is a component of a future international compensation mechanism.

Child-Friendly Justice Assessment Tool Launched

The Council of Europe and the European Union have launched a new child-friendly justice assessment tool to help protect children involved in legal proceedings. Pilot countries Belgium, Poland, and Slovenia have shared their experiences using the tool to adapt justice systems to the needs of children.