The relationship between the Council of Europe (CoE) and the European Union (EU) builds on the shared values of individual freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
20/12/2005 ::
These common values have for decades been the foundation for co-operation in the fields of democratic institution-building, Justice and home affairs, social and health matters, education and culture, heritage and the environment, local government and the protection of national minorities. Recent changes in Europe have lead to new fields of co-operation, such as the fight against organised crime and corruption and trafficking in human beings.
The European Commission is invited to take part in all meetings of the Committee of Ministers and its subsidiary bodies (Ministers’ Deputies, Rapporteur Groups etc.).