20/12/2024 Secretary General of the Assembly
PACE Secretary General Despina Chatzivassiliou travelled to Crete on 18 December to take part in a two-day event to promote human rights as part of the Region of Crete's new campaign "Equality4Crete - do the right thing!" Around 60 schools, including secondary schools, took part in the event, which focused on promoting gender equality, combating violence against women and children, and the fight against racism.
"I am moved and impressed by the work of the children who, through their own theatrical, musical and dance performances, denounce violence against women and all forms of violence against children. My personal commitment to young people has always been very strong, and this event reinforces my conviction that the Council of Europe must do more for and with them," she declared. She expressed her deep pride in the new generation and her conviction that "if all young people share such passion and conviction, Europe will see better days in the protection of human rights".
Sharing some personal experiences, she called on them to "never tolerate anyone insulting you, belittling your value or casting doubt on your ability to claim a position of authority". She added: "Do not hesitate to report any offensive or abusive behaviour to people you trust or to the 24-hour helplines. It is only by breaking the silence that we can eliminate violence in all spheres of society, in families, groups of friends or at school."
Referring to the main achievements of the Council of Europe since its creation 75 years ago, she highlighted the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and the Lanzarote Convention on protecting children against sexual abuse. "Every 10 minutes, a woman is murdered by someone close to her. One child in five has been abused at least once in his or her life. Behind these terrible figures are the faces of victims living a devastating reality that must change," she declared.
"Today, I leave to Strasbourg full of strength, optimism and hope. These children have conveyed through their unique performances, in such a passionate and creative way, the hope that the next generation will change things. I am particularly moved, proud and grateful that everything we are fighting for in Strasbourg by implementing international instruments is finding a response on the ground. For them and for children all over Europe, it is worth fighting together to make their dreams and aspirations come true," the Secretary General concluded.
