Strengthening Human Rights in Europe: The Future of the Council of Europe

The third edition of the Liverpool Summer School in the Law of the Council of Europe will delve into the intricacies of European human rights law, examining its effectiveness in addressing pressing contemporary challenges. Taking place from July 7th to 18th,2025, the school will convene leading experts,judges,and policymakers to discuss crucial issues such as the enforcement of European court of Human Rights (ECtHR) judgments and the complexities of migration within the European framework.

Ensuring Justice: The Enforcement of ECtHR Judgments

A core focus of the summer school will be the execution of ECtHR judgments, which are basic to upholding justice across europe. Participants will engage in in-depth discussions about the challenges and strategies involved in translating these judgments into tangible legal outcomes for individuals and communities. The school will also explore the role of national authorities in ensuring compliance with ECtHR decisions and the mechanisms for addressing instances of non-compliance.

Navigating Migration: Balancing Rights and Security

Another key theme will be the complex issue of migration. The Council of europe plays a vital role in safeguarding the rights of migrants within its member states, navigating the delicate balance between protecting individual liberties and addressing security concerns. This session will delve into the legal and policy frameworks governing migration within the Council of Europe, analyzing the effectiveness of existing mechanisms and exploring innovative approaches to address the evolving challenges of migration in Europe.

A Gathering of Expertise

The Liverpool Summer School offers a unique opportunity to learn from renowned practitioners and scholars in the field of European human rights law. Prominent attendees include Judge Mykola Gnatovskyy of the ECtHR, Ms Lilja Gretarsdottir from the Council of Europe’s Human Rights Implementation Department, Professor michele Nicoletti, former President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, and Professor Aoife Nolan, President of the European Committee of Social Rights. Their insights and expertise will provide invaluable perspectives on the current state and future trajectory of human rights law in Europe.

Who Should Attend?

This summer school is designed for individuals passionate about human rights and European law. It welcomes master’s and PhD students,legal professionals,judges,policymakers,academics,and researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of the Council of Europe’s role in safeguarding human rights across its member states.

Take the Next Step

For more facts about costs, accommodation, and scholarship opportunities, visit https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/law/research/research-clusters/international-law-and-human-rights-unit/summer-school-2025/. Join this esteemed gathering of experts and contribute to the ongoing dialog about the future of human rights in Europe.

What role does the ECtHR play in interpreting the Convention in the context of migration, and how does its case law guide states in balancing migrants’ rights and security concerns?

Strengthening Human Rights in Europe: A Conversation with Judge Gnatovskyy and Ms. Gretarsdottir

Introducing Our Alex Reeds

Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming two distinguished guests to Archyde.Judge Mykola Gnatovskyy, a prominent figure at the European Court of Human Rights, and Ms. Lilja Gretarsdottir, an expert from the Council of Europe’s Human Rights Implementation Department, will share their insights on the future of human rights in Europe.

Ensuring Justice: The Enforcement of ECtHR Judgments

Judge Gnatovskyy,the enforcement of ECtHR judgments is crucial for effective human rights protection. What challenges do you see in this process?

“Thank you. Indeed, the enforcement of ECtHR judgments is vital for the effectiveness of the European convention on Human Rights. Unluckily, we face several challenges. One major hurdle is the varying approaches of member states towards compliance. Some states are more cooperative than others, leading to delays and, in certain specific cases, non-compliance. Another challenge is ensuring that domestic authorities understand the obligations they have undertaken when ratifying the Convention.”

Ms. Gretarsdottir, what strategies can the Council of Europe employ to address these challenges and ensure justice for all?

“Ms. Gretarsdottir: We’re working on several strategies to improve the enforcement of ECtHR judgments. Enhanced monitoring and follow-up by our Human Rights Implementation Department is crucial. We’re also promoting dialog and cooperation among member states through platforms like the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers. Moreover, we’re fostering a culture of compliance by involving domestic stakeholders and raising awareness about the Convention’s importance.”

Navigating Migration: Balancing rights and Security

Ms. Gretarsdottir, how does the Council of Europe balance the rights of migrants with the security concerns of member states?

“Balance is indeed the operative word here. The Council of Europe promotes a human rights-based approach to migration, ensuring that migrants’ rights are protected while also addressing legitimate security concerns. This involves improving migration management, strengthening border controls, and enhancing cooperation among member states. But its also crucial to ensure that migrants’ rights are respected throughout their journey and onc they arrive in Europe.”

Judge Gnatovskyy, what role does the ECtHR play in this process?

“The ECtHR plays a vital role in interpreting the Convention in the context of migration. We’ve seen an increase in cases involving migrant-related issues, such as the right to family life, non-refoulement, and access to effective remedies. Our case law helps guide domestic authorities in striking this balance between migrants’ rights and security concerns.”

A Thought-Provoking Question

As we look towards the future, what do you think is the most pressing human rights challenge facing Europe today, and how can the Council of Europe and other organizations help address it?

A call to Action

Join Judge Gnatovskyy and Ms. Gretarsdottir, along with other prominent experts, at the Liverpool Summer School in the Law of the Council of Europe from July 7th to 18th, 2025. For more details about costs,accommodation,and scholarship opportunities,visit here. Your presence and contributions will enrich the ongoing dialogue about the future of human rights in Europe.