Amherd: “The Council of Europe is as urgently needed today as ever”
Published: Sunday, May 5th 2024, 12:01
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On the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Council of Europe, President Viola Amherd emphasized its importance. In view of the increasing authoritarian tendencies, the institution is still needed "at least as urgently as ever".
Democracy, human rights and the rule of law were re-established in Europe 75 years ago thanks to the Council of Europe, the President of the Swiss Confederation wrote in her message on Sunday. Its foundation stands for the "successful attempt" to rebuild the continent after its devastation in the Second World War.
Today, Europe's security and prosperity are particularly threatened by the Russian war against Ukraine. If Europeans want their political, economic and social model to remain influential, they must be committed to defending the values that Europe has helped to shape.
The members reaffirmed this core task at the summit in Rykjavik last year. The anniversary is therefore also an occasion for self-confidence and optimism. After all, the founding of the Council of Europe has shown that "even the most difficult situations" can give rise to something promising for the future.
Accordingly, Switzerland is also committed to the organization. With the candidacy of former Federal Councillor Alain Berset as Secretary General, Switzerland is reaffirming its commitment to the institution and "a rules-based, democratic and peaceful Europe".
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