Alain Berset: Championing Human Rights and Ukraine‘s Future
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Alain Berset, the new Secretary General of the Council of Europe since September 18, 2024, is deeply involved in critical conflict regions, with a particular focus on Ukraine. He has made three visits to the war-torn country within the past year,providing firsthand insight into the ongoing crisis. “I have experienced air raid alerts several times, during the day and at night,” Berset revealed in an interview. His experiences have shaped his strong stance on the conflict, stating, “The whole country is involved in a war against the nuclear power Russia. The whole country, not just part of it. There are no safe areas in Ukraine at the moment.”
The Council of Europe office in Kiev, with approximately 100 employees, operates amidst the daily horrors of the war. Berset emphasizes the crucial need for a thorough legal examination into all war crimes committed.To facilitate this, the council of Europe has established a register of damage, which already contains over 13,000 entries.This extensive record is intended to serve as the foundation for future reparations. Though, Berset acknowledges the challenge of securing funding for these efforts. While many frozen Russian assets exist across Europe, accessing them will likely be a complex and politically charged process.
Focusing on Ukraine and Upholding Human Rights
In his inaugural address to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in strasbourg on September 18, Berset laid out his vision, emphasizing human rights, Ukraine’s future, democracy, and the unity of Europe. He stressed the need to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine following the 2022 invasion, affirming that Europe stands with Ukraine in its fight for freedom, independence, and reconstruction.
Notably, Russian representatives were absent from the Strasbourg assembly, having been expelled following the invasion. Russia’s membership in the Council of Europe was formally revoked in March 2022.
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## Archyde Interviews Alain Berset: Championing Human Rights and Ukraine’s Future
**Today, we are honored to speak with Alain Berset, the newly appointed Secretary General of the Council of Europe. Mr. Berset, thank you for joining us.**
**Alain Berset:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Archyde:** Your tenure began on September 18th, 2024, and since then, you’ve prioritized engagement with critical conflict zones, particularly Ukraine. Three visits within a year demonstrate a deep commitment. Can you elaborate on your reasons for this focus?
**Alain Berset:** The war in Ukraine is a tragedy with devastating consequences for human rights. As the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, which is mandated to uphold human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across our continent, it’s imperative that we actively engage with the situation. We must support Ukrainians during this crisis, document potential war crimes, and work towards a just and lasting peace. [[1](https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/democracy/ex-swiss-minister-berset-takes-council-of-europe-top-job/81782899)]
**Archyde:** What specific actions is the council of Europe taking to address the situation in Ukraine?
**Alain Berset:** Our efforts are multifaceted. We’re working closely with Ukrainian authorities to ensure the protection of civilians and provide humanitarian assistance. We are also actively investigating allegations of war crimes and human rights abuses, and we are supporting the International Criminal Court’s work in Ukraine. Moreover, we are engaging with international partners to rally support for Ukraine and press for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
**Archyde:** Beyond the immediate crisis, what about the long-term impact on Ukraine and its future relationship with Europe?
**Alain Berset:** The war has undoubtedly had a profound impact on Ukraine and its peopel. the country faces enormous challenges in terms of rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening democratic institutions, and fostering national reconciliation. The Council of Europe is committed to supporting Ukraine’s long-term recovery and integration into the European family. We will continue to provide expertise and assistance in key areas such as justice reform, good governance, and human rights protection.
**Archyde:** Mr. Berset, thank you for sharing your insights with us. Your commitment to Ukraine and the broader mission of the Council of Europe is inspiring.
**Alain Berset:** it has been my pleasure. I believe that working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of the Ukrainian people and contribute to a more peaceful and just Europe.
