What do the Reykjavik Parameters offer?

In a time of growing complexity and challenges for democracies across the continent, such as declining trust in democratic institutions, erosion of the rule of law, or disinformation campaigns, the Reykjavik Parameters respond to the need for a unified, forward-looking set of democracy requirements.

The Parameters are a detailed list of the key ingredients that Council of Europe member states recognise as essential to a well-functioning democracy – government by the people, free and fair elections, local self-government, participation and inclusion, human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, separation of powers, or equality and respect for diversity, among others.

In this way, the Parameters can serve as a practical resource: to take stock of how democracy is functioning, identify gaps and opportunities to strengthen it, support public debate about democratic issues, and consider how democratic institutions and processes can respond to new challenges. When the Reykjavík Parameters are applied in a country, they can help identify gaps and opportunities to reinforce a democratic system and provide evidence to support reform processes to respond to existing or new challenges.

 

A resource for all

Although intended for Council of Europe member states as primary guardians of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, the Reykjavik Parameters are available for use by institutions, civil society organisations, or citizens wishing to review the state of democracy in their country.

 

Voluntary but grounded in binding instruments

The use of the Reykjavik Parameters is voluntary. However, many international instruments on which they are based – including the European Convention on Human Rights – are binding for member states. The Parameters therefore provide a voluntary yet authoritative guide to support policy making.

 

A catalyst for reform and mutual trust

The application of the Parameters does not require any legal or constitutional changes. They provide a framework for a country to assess itself. Where vulnerabilities or gaps in a democratic system are identified, the relevant authorities can implement targeted reforms. Such democratic reforms can build confidence among citizens and international partners.

From 2027, pilot implementation of the Parameters will begin with volunteering member states through the project REVIVE. National democratic order, culture and traditions will be respected when applying the Reykjavik Parameters to ensure both rigour and legitimacy.

 Download the Reyjkavik Parameters