The Council of Europe Steering Committee on Democracy (CDDEM) is looking for input to the draft text of the parameters for the implementation of the Reykjavik Principles for Democracy.
The 4th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Council of Europe, held in Reykjavik on May 2023, marked a renewed political commitment to Europe’s shared democratic values. Following the Summit, the CDDEM was tasked with developing a set of parameters reflecting the core elements needed to uphold and strengthen democratic systems for the future.
Based on the extensive body of Council of Europe standards on democracy, human rights and the rule of law, the parameters are intended as a practical tool to help member states and other interested actors identify gaps and vulnerabilities in their democratic systems and take action where needed. The parameters are mainly addressed to public authorities of member states; they can also support mutual learning across countries. In the longer term, they can contribute to advancing the New Democratic Pact for Europe.
Why a public consultation? The purpose of this public consultation is to ensure that the parameters capture the key elements needed for a functioning democracy that is responsive to citizens in all their diversity; that protects and promotes human rights for all and that enshrines the principles of the rule of law in its institutions and processes. Following the public consultation, the CDDEM will finalise the text.
Who can participate? The CDDEM is inviting input from a wide range of interested stakeholders like civil society organisations, academia, professional organisations, young people, international organisations, etc.
When will the consultation close? The public consultation will remain open until the 15 September 2025.
How can input be sent? Comments can be submitted in writing in English or French by email to [email protected]. Please indicate: “GT-P public consultation – submitted by [name]” in the email object.
The draft text of the parameters can be consulted here.
More information on the work of CDDEM and the working group on parameters.
