18/11/2025 News | European Convention on Human Rights
To mark the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights, PACE and the Strasbourg Court jointly hosted a screening of Greek director Costa-Gavras’ acclaimed film “Z” on 17 November at the Cinéma Le Cosmos in Strasbourg.
Opening the event, PACE President Theodoros Rousopoulos highlighted the symbolism of the date, noting that 17 November marks the 53rd anniversary of the student uprising against the Greek military junta, a peaceful demonstration that ended in bloodshed. “What happened in that moment was proof that we need to fight,” he said.
Reflecting on the film itself, he added that its central figure — the investigative judge— resolutely pursued the guilty, “proving that justice will always prevail”. Standing beside Court President Mattias Guyomar, who he thanked for the initiative, he concluded: “We must trust the judges, trust justice and trust the Human Rights Convention and Human Rights Court.”
Released in 1969 and inspired by the assassination of Greek MP Grigoris Lambrakis, “Z” remains a powerful reflection on political repression, civic courage and democratic resistance. Addressing the audience via video from Athens, Costa-Gavras spoke about the film’s continuing relevance in today’s political climate.
The screening was followed by a Q&A session with both Presidents, moderated by the Director of the Strasbourg Press Club Anka Wessang, during which they reflected on the contemporary significance of the Convention system and the rule of law across Europe.
