The major role of culture in the progress of social knowledge, the understanding of others and the transmission of values has been recognised. It constitutes a precondition for a satisfying life and is a source of fulfilment. From its creation, the Council of Europe has been aware of the role of culture and education in encouraging respect for cultural diversity while furthering common fundamental values. The European Cultural Convention is the foundation for Council of Europe co-operation in the fields of culture, education, youth and sport to which the principles of human rights and democracy developed by the Organisation should apply. All 47 members of the Council of Europe are also States Parties to the Cultural Convention; Belarus, the Holy See and Kazakhstan are States Parties to the Cultural Convention but are not members of the Council of Europe.
The Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (The Lisbon Recognition Convention)
This convention was developed by the Council of Europe and UNESCO and adopted by national representatives in Lisbon (8-11 April 1997). Some 53 countries have since ratified the convention, usually referred to as the Lisbon Recognition Convention; these include most of the States Parties to the European Cultural Convention.
The Committee of Ministers makes non-binding recommendations to member States on matters for which the Committee has agreed “a common policy”. However, the Statute permits the Committee of Ministers to ask member governments "to inform it of the action taken by them" in regard to recommendations (Article 15.b).
Intergovernmental committees urge member States to improve monitoring of the implementation of recommendations.
Democratic citizenship and intercultural dialogue
The Charter on Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education
Recommendations of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe debates matters within its competence under its Statute and presents its conclusions, in the form of recommendations, to the Committee of Ministers. It shall also discuss and may make recommendations upon any matter referred to it by the Committee of Ministers with a request for its opinion.
More information about the European Cultural Convention
Threats to academic freedom and autonomy of higher education institutions in Europe (2020)