“It is indeed important to understand fully that preventing conflicts goes much deeper than simply containing warring parties. It requires fighting the roots of conflict – authoritarian rule, discrimination, inequality, intolerance. It also requires strengthening the institutions of democratic governance and the rule of law, which are capable of securing human rights for all”, highlighted Gabriella Battaini-Dragoni, while opening the 47th Annual Study Session “Armed Conflicts and International Human Rights Law”, organised by the Foundation René Cassin in Strasbourg.

Deputy Secretary General underlined the importance of the concept of democratic security, emphasizing the role of Human Rights before, during and to end conflicts.

Gabriella Battaini-Dragoni summarized her speech quoting Kofi Anan: "We will not enjoy development without security, we will not enjoy security without development, and we will not enjoy either without respect for human rights."