The Intergovernmental Committee on the Environment (GME) held its final meeting from 2 to 4 December 2025, marking the completion of its mandate.
During this session, the Committee reviewed progress in implementing the Council of Europe Strategy on the Environment (2025–2030) and examined follow-up actions under each of its five strategic objectives:
- Integrating human rights into environmental policy
The GME assessed implementation measures in light of the Council of Europe Action Plan and recent international developments. - Strengthening democratic governance in environmental matters
A thematic discussion on Human Rights and Climate Disinformation was held with UN rapporteurs and invited experts. - Supporting and protecting environmental human-rights defenders and whistle-blowers
The GME considered preparations for the 1st European Forum of Environment Human Rights Defenders, to be hosted by the Council of Europe in Strasbourg on 3–4 June 2026. - Preventing and prosecuting environmental crime
The Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of the Environment through Criminal Law opened for signature in Strasbourg, on 3 December 2025. - Protecting wildlife, ecosystems, habitats, and landscapes
The GME examined the outcomes of the Ministerial Conference of the Landscape Convention held in Florence and recent developments related to the Bern Convention.
The GME brings together representatives of member States, Council of Europe bodies, international organisations, and civil society. Established under the Reykjavík Process following the 4th Summit of Heads of State and Government in 2023, the Committee concluded its work at the end of 2025.
The GME will be succeeded by the new Steering Committee on the Environment (CDENV) as of 1 January 2026.
More information on the Council of Europe’s environmental activities is available here.
