I regret to learn of the President of the United States of America's decision to initiate the procedure to withdraw from the European Commission for Democracy through Law.

The United States became a full member of the Venice Commission in April 2013, upon their request, after being an Observer State since 1991. During these years, the United States members have contributed, alongside the other 60 European and non-European members of the Commission, to advancing “democracy through law”: namely the process through which democratically elected governments promote social and economic well-being for all and protect individual rights without discrimination, under the guidance of the rule of law.

The Venice Commission has assisted numerous States in adopting constitutional and legislative reforms aimed at upholding the values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, with full respect for principles of national sovereignty and constitutional pluralism. The Venice Commission attaches great value to the specific historical, political, and cultural contexts of its member States, and takes them all into account in developing the common standards that guide its work.

Losing the United States’ membership would deprive the Commission of a valued perspective and experience. The Venice Commission remains open to resume working with the United States in support of shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.