Zonta Essentials: The Council of Europe and The New Democratic Pact – A commitment for 21st Century Democratic Security in Europe

Through Zonta's Council of Europe (CoE) Committee, Zonta holds participatory status at the Council of Europe, Europe's leading human rights organization. The committee will provide regular updates to enhance members' understanding of Zonta's role with the CoE.

Click here to read the basics and the previous episodes of the series.

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Part 11. The Council of Europe and The New Democratic Pact – A commitment for 21st Century Democratic Security in Europe

Democratic backsliding, disinformation, impunity and authoritarianism are undermining democracy in Europe and worldwide. The international rules-based order that has built and secured democratic societies is unravelling.

Threats to civic space have expanded over the past years, and they are becoming increasingly refined and pervasive. However, not only civic space, but in particular women’s rights are facing threats and devastating setbacks, as we are increasingly experiencing.

At the 2023 Reykjavik Summit, Heads of States and Governments of the CoE member states adopted the Reykjavik Declaration (see part 10 of the Zonta Essentials) which recently gave rise to a collective response, the New Democratic Pact. The Pact will serve as a strategic, inclusive and political process to reinforce the foundations of democracy, amplify its benefits and innovates its form to make it tangible and accessible for everyone. The goal is a Europe where citizens feel heard, empowered and protected.

In response, more innovative and proactive policies are needed. It is central to ensure full, equal and meaningful participation in political and public life for all, in particular for women and girls, free from violence, fear, harassment, hate speech and hate crime, as well as discrimination based on any ground.

Since the Reykjavik Summit, the CoE has launched an ambitious program addressing key areas such as education, gender equality, youth participation, civil society, media freedom, AI and human rights, culture and heritage and anti-corruption efforts. As well as a monitoring tool to counter backsliding. And above all, the use and consistent implementation of the unique instruments the CoE has developed over many years.

Overall, the process leading to the New Democratic Pact aims to revitalize democracy through innovation, institutional renewal and civic empowerment. Not to forget women’s rights as an essential part of democracy.

The new Democratic Pact is a great example that the Council of Europe is a vibrant, ever-acting organization that is committed to addressing the challenges of our time.

Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset, when giving his 2025 Report: “We cannot meet today’s challenges with yesterday’s playbook. And we must never forget that democracy is our first line of defense. What Europe needs is a reset: a New Democratic Pact for Europe”.

Next episode: How the Council of Europe enhances equal participation in politics.

24 MARCH 2026