The Council of Europe conventions are the yardstick for the upholding of democracy, the rule of law and human rights in our 47 member States. Nevertheless, today, multilateralism and the values embodied in these conventions are facing multiple challenges calling for an adequate response.
Through the Open Council of Europe Academic Networks (OCEAN), we can create strong and lasting ties between our Organisation and European higher education and research institutions. By strengthening, in a systematic and structured way, the mutually enriching and beneficial interaction between the academic world and practical intergovernmental co-operation, OCEAN will enhance the visibility of the Council of Europe standards, through teaching, research and multiple co-operation formats, and it will thus contribute to the improved application of the Council of Europe conventions in all our countries.
The Parliamentary Assembly should promote this innovative approach. We should call on the Committee of Ministers to support OCEAN and we should raise awareness within European legislatures and beyond about the great potential of national and transnational academic networks and the role they can play by upholding our common values and standards.