From May to November 2017, the Czech Republic chairs the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.

As set out in their policy paper, the protection of the rights of the child is one of the priority areas during their chairmanship.

To that effect, several important events will be organised to discuss the protection of children and human rights issues arising in the context of detention (in child welfare institutions, or as a result of migration policies) and to mark the 10th anniversary of the opening for signature of the Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (Lanzarote Convention), (October 2017). The Czech Chairmanship will also take steps to encourage the broadest possible ratification and implementation of the Lanzarote Convention as well as to secure the effective implementation of the Council of Europe Strategy for the Rights of the Child (2016-2021).

In addition to these priorities, the Czech Chairmanship will work to advance other areas of important Council of Europe business.

Priorities of the Czech Chairmanship