General policy debate on the situation in the Balkans

Recommendation 1765 (2006)

Author(s):

Parliamentary Assembly

Origin

Assembly debate on 3 October 2006 (26th Sitting) (see Doc. 11050, report of the Political Affairs Committee, rapporteur: Mr Eörsi). Text adopted by the Assembly on 3 October 2006 (26th Sitting).

Thesaurus

1. Referring to its Resolution 1517 (2006) on the general policy debate on the situation in the Balkans, the Parliamentary Assembly reiterates the historical role of the Council of Europe in improving good governance, strengthening democracy and the rule of law, raising human rights standards and improving the protection of national minorities in Europe. The Assembly is convinced that a similar role should be played as regards the Western Balkan region.

2. Similarly, the Assembly believes that the Council of Europe should be more active in the region.

3. The Assembly therefore asks the Committee of Ministers to:

3.1 pursue the monitoring of commitments and obligations arising from Council of Europe membership, also with a view to providing support to further progress and improvement of the functioning of democratic institutions, the rule of law and respect for human rights;

3.2 step up its programmes of assistance to the countries of the region;

3.3 extend its presence, reinforce its activities and increase its visibility in the region;

3.4 consider the appointment of a special representative for the Western Balkans.