The Council of Europe is back together for the first time in 18 years. In the Icelandic capital Reykjavik, 46 heads of government – including Mark Rutte – will meet today and tomorrow to discuss, among other things, the war in Ukraine, according to European journalist Stefan de Vries.
And there is much to discuss, thinks De Vries, who speaks of a ‘council of Europe refreshment’. “Member states will find a way to record the damage caused by Russian troops in Ukraine,” he says. “Allows citizens to file damages claims against Moscow.”
“Member states will find a way to record the damage caused by Russian troops in Ukraine”
That special register should then be set up in The Hague, according to De Vries. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has even suggested setting up a special court there as a first step towards redressing Russia.
Turkey
But according to De Vries there are also many other topics on the agenda of the dusted off Council of Europe (not to be confused with the European Council, ed). We will talk, among other things, of the situation in Turkey, in the midst of the presidential elections. “Turkey risks being suspended by the Council of Europe,” he continues. “In connection with the failed release of businessman Osman Kavala in 2019. This is interesting.”
A new human right for Europeans will also be brought to the table, De Vries knows: the right to a healthy living environment. After all, the Council of Europe was founded in 1949 as a guarantor of human rights and democracy after the Second World War. “This is an interesting topic, especially in view of the fight against climate change,” concludes De Vries. ‘I think they will also pay attention to The Hague. Because with the nitrogen dossier it could become a new revolutionary human right. It would mean that European citizens can turn to the European Court if the air is dirty.’
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
