Council of Europe Anniversary Conference: Germany Celebrates 75 Years Serving Democracy and Human Rights

On 13 July 1950, the Federal Republic of Germany joined the Council of Europe as one of the first post-war countries – marking its membership in the first international organization to admit Germany after the Second World War. This step was crucial for Germany's return to the international community and its anchoring in the values-based European project.

To mark the 75th anniversary of Germany's Council of Europe membership, an anniversary conference was held on 8 July 2025 at the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin. Under the title "Strengthening Networks for Democracy – 75 Years of Germany in the Council of Europe," representatives from politics, academia, business, and civil society discussed the Council's central role in defending shared European values.

The conference underscored the enduring significance of the Council of Europe's founding principles established in 1949: democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It served not only to reflect on 75 years of commitment to Europe's fundamental values but also to chart the path forward for the Council as an indispensable institution at a time when its core principles once again require resolute defense.

In light of current challenges and security concerns, the conference emphasized the need for Europe to unite more closely – both to protect these values and to foster economic and social progress. The Council of Europe remains the bedrock of this undertaking.

Co-hosted by the Council of Europe and the Federal Foreign Office with support from the European Movement Germany (EBD), the anniversary conference included participation from FUEN representatives: Olivia Schubert (Vice President), Eva Penzes (Secretary General), and Renata Trischler (AGDM Coordinator).