The CDDEM will be delivering new international standards to promote inclusive participation in elections and to establish mechanisms for multi-level governance. The CDDEM will develop as well detailed guidance on the application of the Reykjavik Parameters for Democracy and review the implementation of Recommendation CM/Rec(2023)5 on the Principles of Good Democratic Governance.

Two working groups: GT-P2 (working group on the Reykjavik Parameters of Democracy -framework and methodology for their application) and GT-GPN (working group on multi-level governance) have been set up to prepare these deliverables. The working groups will work in close co-operation with the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities and the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly.

In a general context of democratic backsliding, voter disaffection and general challenges to democracy in Europe and beyond, purposive action is needed to strengthen democratic institutions and culture and future-proof democracy. The Council of Europe is supporting action by member states to enhance their systems’ resilience, including through the process of the New Democratic Pact for Europe.