75th anniversary of the Council of Europe, Kurti: This year marks meeting of Kosovo criteria for membership

He stresses that Kosovo has met the criteria for membership, and this implies the strength of our democracy and rule of law.

“Today, 75 years ago, the Council of Europe was founded the continent's main human rights organisation. This year marks Kosovo's recognition as a country that meets the criteria for joining, meaning the strength of our democracy, rule of law and our common responsibility to human rights”, Kurti wrote.

On 16 April 2024, the majority of MPs to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe supported the report recommending Kosovo's membership in this headquarters organisation in Strasbourg.

For voting 131 deputies, there were 29, while 11 abstained. That day, none of the amendments proposed by Serbia was adopted.

The issue has already gone into the hands of the Council of Europe foreign ministers, who must ultimately decide whether Kosovo will become the organisation's newest member.

The next meeting of the Council of Ministers will take place in mid-May. The Council of Foreign Ministers on the Council of Europe meets once a year, traditionally in May.

What is the Council of Europe?

The Council of Europe was established in 1949. This organisation has carried out child protection campaigns, against hate speech and Roma rights, which make up the largest community in Europe.

The Council of Europe helps member states fight corruption and terrorism, as well as carry out needed judicial reforms.

Its body of experts for the constitution, known as the Venice Commission, offers legal advice to various states in the world.

Being an international organisation, the Council of Europe cannot make laws, but has the capacity to promote the implementation of international agreements, reached by member states on different topics.

The Council's two key troops are: The Committee of Ministers and the Parliamentary Assembly.