Some European countries have recently criticized the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), arguing that it sometimes imposes excessive restrictions on national governments, particularly when it comes to expelling individuals from their territories. These countries are calling for a “new and open-minded conversation” regarding how the court interprets and applies its authority.
In response, Alain Berset, president of the Council of Europe, firmly defended the ECHR, emphasizing that “upholding the independence and impartiality of the Court is our bedrock.” In a statement, Berset acknowledged the value of political discourse in democratic societies but cautioned against turning the court into a political battleground. “Politicizing the Court is not healthy,” he warned. “No judiciary should face political pressure.”
Berset stressed the importance of maintaining strong and independent institutions dedicated to protecting fundamental rights. “Institutions that protect fundamental rights cannot bend to political cycles. If they do, we risk eroding the very stability they were built to ensure,” he said.
The Council of Europe, founded in 1949, consists of 46 member states and is tasked with promoting and safeguarding fundamental human rights across the European continent.
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