Report by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, April 2024: UK response
Ambassador Neil Holland thanks Secretary General Buric for her leadership and for the Council of Europe's ongoing collaboration with the OSCE.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
Secretary General Buric, Dear Maria, welcome back to the Permanent Council. And congratulations to the Council of Europe on the upcoming 75th anniversary of the signing of the Statute of London, its founding document. The UK appreciates the Council of Europe’s collaboration with the OSCE. On this, your last Permanent Council appearance, thank you for your contribution throughout your time in office.
The promotion of human rights, rule of law and democracy underpins the relationship between the Council of Europe and the OSCE. We share common challenges, which each organisation approaches with a unique set of tools. As you have said, we must continue to work with each other to ensure that each organisation’s activities complement and reinforce the other’s in pursuit of our common goals.
It is with great sadness that we meet again against the bleak backdrop of Russian aggression in Ukraine. Holding those who do not respect their international obligations accountable is more pertinent than ever. We commend the Council of Europe for its work to establish the Register of Damage for Ukraine, which will allow individuals to file claims for loss, injury and damage caused by Russia’s invasion. The UK is proud to chair the Register of Damage. I encourage all States who have not signed up to the Register, to do so.
We also acknowledge the Council of Europe’s work to tackle contemporary challenges such as the recently concluded negotiations for the Convention on AI. Combating people smuggling is another area where international cooperation is critical, and we thank you, Secretary General, for your commitment to the Council of Europe’s efforts in this area.
Secretary General Buric – in the face of war in Europe and regression of human rights and fundamental freedoms across the region, the work of both organisations remains vital. The UK looks forward to working with the Council of Europe and the OSCE throughout 2024 and beyond. And we wish you personally all the best with whatever comes next.
Thank you.