Mission statement: to strengthen the role of Civil Society in the Council of Europe

The Conference of INGOs brings together all the NGOs that enjoy participatory status at the Council of Europe. This voice of Civil Society in the CoE, represents a wide variety of organizations in many sectors, active in many countries and is committed to the agenda of the CoE: democracy, human rights and rule of law.

Traditionally the Conference focuses on (gender) equality and non-discrimination, freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. We keep in close contact and in dialogue with civil society in neighbouring areas of Europe.

Recently, the erosion of the space for civil society organisations and the breakdown of participative society have become matters of deep concern.

In the past year the Conference has undergone a substantial reform process, resulting in more focus on the needs of our INGOs and on the agenda of the other bodies of the CoE.

We invite you to come in contact with us, learn more about the Council of Europe and the Conference of INGOs and also about how you can contribute to our mission.

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Back Address of Mr Gerhard Ermischer, President of the Conference of INGOs at the 132nd Session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe

Address of Mr Gerhard Ermischer, President of the Conference of INGOs at the 132nd Session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe

Mr Gerhard Ermischer, the President of the Conference of INGOs, addressed the Committee of Minsters of the Council of Europe at its 132nd session in Turin, Italy on 20 May 2022. In light of the important role the Council of Europe plays in protecting human rights and democracy in Europe, he emphasised the need to strengthen the Organisation in order to face today’s serious challenges, and tomorrow’s opportunities. A genuinely meaningful participation of civil society in that process will be important. He also recalled that, although the Council of Europe is an international intergovernmental Organisation, founded and governed by States, its core mission is not to serve states or governments, but to serve the people of Europe.

 

 Speech of the President of the Conference of INGOs at the 132nd Session of the Committee of Ministers

Turin, Italy 20 May 2022
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