Monaco’s presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe reached a major milestone on Monday as Minister of State Christophe Mirmand addressed the Parliamentary Assembly in Strasbourg…
The appearance marked a historic moment for the Principality, which assumed the six-month presidency on May 15 and is now responsible for guiding the work of the Council of Europe’s 46 member states. Speaking before parliamentarians from across Europe, Mirmand outlined Monaco’s vision for its presidency and reaffirmed the Principality’s commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
In a wide-ranging speech, Mirmand described Monaco as a nation built on dialogue, openness and coexistence, noting that nearly 140 nationalities live together within the Principality. He stressed that a country’s contribution to the Council of Europe should not be measured by its size, population or economic strength, but by its commitment to shared values and collective action.
The Minister of State also highlighted Monaco’s institutional evolution since joining the Council of Europe in 2004. He pointed to reforms that have strengthened the powers of the National Council, reinforced judicial independence through the High Council of the Judiciary, expanded the role of the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights and Mediation, and established the Committee for the Promotion and Protection of Women’s Rights. He also cited ongoing work in areas including family law, social rights, anti-corruption measures and a proposed law designed to strengthen protections for journalists.
Addressing international affairs, Mirmand reaffirmed Monaco’s unwavering support for Ukraine and called for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace based on respect for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also highlighted Monaco’s participation in international initiatives aimed at securing accountability for violations of international law, including the Register of Damage for Ukraine and the future Special Tribunal on the Crime of Aggression.
The Minister of State warned that Europe faces a range of interconnected challenges, including war, disinformation, cyber threats, democratic erosion and declining trust in institutions. He argued that these issues can only be addressed through cooperation and a renewed commitment to multilateralism.
Monaco has therefore placed several priorities at the heart of its presidency. These include advancing women’s rights and combating violence against women, protecting children and young people from radicalisation and online harms, promoting sport as a vehicle for inclusion and education, strengthening support for the European Court of Human Rights, and enhancing international cooperation against organised crime, terrorism, money laundering and corruption.
Following his speech, Mirmand took part in an open question-and-answer session with parliamentarians covering a wide range of topics relating to Monaco, Europe and the Council of Europe’s future role.
For the Principality, the presidency represents both an honour and an opportunity to demonstrate that even one of Europe’s smallest states can play a meaningful role in addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges while remaining firmly committed to the values that have guided the Council of Europe for more than 75 years.
Image: Stephane Danna