“Europe must move with more determination from rhetoric to enforcement of human rights standards” stated the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Thomas Hammarberg, when presenting today the last annual report of his mandate. The report identifies fields in which stronger political action is required. One concern is the justice system which is dysfunctional in several member states. “Corruption, political interference and lack of resources erode the independence and credibility of the judiciary. Strengthening the rule of law is essential to rebuild public confidence in the justice system.”

The Commissioner also regrets the increased pressure on the media, which hamper their independence and pluralism. Persons with disabilities remain largely excluded from key sectors of life, Roma people still live in abject misery and suffer alienation in many European countries and Marginalisation and stigmatisation deeply impinge on the everyday life of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) persons in some countries.

The Commissioner observes that attitudes towards asylum-seekers and migrants have gradually become more negative and, despite some progress in awareness and legal protection, discrimination against women persists in employment, education and political participation. Finally, the Commissioner stresses that the living conditions of older persons are a major concern.

Commissioner Hammarberg’s six-year mandate comes to an end next March 31. The newly elected Commissioner, Nils Muižnieks, will take up his functions on April 1. (more...)

Video of the speech

Nils Muižnieks of Latvia elected Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights