On 27 October 2025, under the Maltese Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, the Organisation will host a High-Level Event in Strasbourg to launch the Committee of Ministers Recommendation CM/Rec(2025)7 to member States on Equal Rights for Intersex Persons – the first international instrument providing a comprehensive framework for the protection and promotion of the human rights of intersex persons across Europe. Adopted by the 46 member States of the Council of Europe, this Recommendation calls on governments to ensure the full protection and inclusion of intersex persons, addressing discrimination, violence, and harmful medical practices, while promoting dignity, bodily integrity, autonomy, and access to justice.
A programme highlighting intersex voices and a collective commitment to equality
The launch event will open with a keynote address by Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset, as well as welcoming remarks by Helena Dalli, Former EU Commissionner for Equality, and Dan Christian Ghattas, Executive Director of OII Europe.
The first session, “Intersex voices – Intersex experiences and expectations", will bring to the forefront the perspectives of intersex people, parents and community representatives, shedding light on the lived realities that inspired this landmark Recommendation.
Subsequent segments will bring together representatives of international institutions as well as civil society organisations, focusing on the importance of collective efforts to advance equality and inclusion for intersex persons.
The event will conclude with presentations of the Recommendation and of the #EuropeGoesPurple campaign.
Cultural event and symbolic act
Following the hybrid conference, the evening will feature the illumination of the Palais de l’Europe in purple – the colour of intersex visibility and solidarity – accompanied by a performance by the Pelicanto LGBTQ+ Choir of Alsace. A reception and exhibition on intersex lives and rights will take place in the Foyer of the Committee of Ministers.
- Watch the event live: Webcast link (Interpretation: English, French, International Sign (IS))
- Programme of the event
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#EuropeGoesPurple – An open invitation The event forms part of the #EuropeGoesPurple campaign, a pan-European initiative inviting institutions, communities and individuals across Europe to promote the new Recommendation, show solidarity with intersex persons and raise awareness of their human rights between 26 October and 8 November 2025. Together, let’s celebrate this historic Recommendation and stand for equal rights for intersex people. |
