Monaco takes Council of Europe chair for first time
By MonacoViews Editorial, MonacoViews Editorial
The Principality has assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of Ministers of the Council of Europe, a historic first that runs until November 2026.
In Strasbourg on Wednesday, Monaco formally took over the rotating presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, marking the first time in the Principality's history that it has held the position. The handover places Monaco at the head of the continent's principal human rights and rule-of-law body for a six-month term running through to November.
Prince Albert II underlined the weight of the responsibility, acknowledging that the role carries particular significance against a backdrop of heightened international tension across Europe. The presidency gives Monaco a platform and an obligation to steer the committee's agenda on issues that extend well beyond the Principality's own borders.
For a state of Monaco's size, chairing an institution that oversees 46 member countries is a diplomatic moment of real consequence. Residents and nationals watching from the Rock will be aware that the Sovereign's words in Strasbourg carry institutional authority for the duration of the term, not merely ceremonial weight.