From Zurich to Strasbourg: European unity in a time of war and rupture

On 19 September 1946, in his historic Zurich speech, Winston Churchill called for the creation of a Council of Europe as a first step towards rebuilding the European family. Less than three years later, on 5 May 1949, that call became reality. Marking the eightieth anniversary of Churchill’s speech, Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, will address the future of European security at a time when war is raging in Europe and at its borders, democratic backsliding is deepening, and the post-war international legal order is experiencing its most profound rupture in decades. The lecture will explore how the values that inspired the creation of the Council of Europe – democracy, human rights and the rule of law – have helped build a common legal space across Europe, and why they remain indispensable in responding to today’s political and security challenges.

Please note that there will be an entrance control. Admission will only be granted upon presentation of a valid ticket. Large bags and bulky items are not permitted inside the lecture hall.

Join the Livestream

The event is fully booked, but you can still be part of it! Please register below to join the livestream and watch the event live. The livestream will be available directly on this event page. A few days before the event, we will send you a reminder with all the details you need to join.

Additional seats are available in the live broadcast room KOL-G-217 on site.