Source: https://wcd.coe.int/ViewDoc.jsp?p=&id=1950611&Site=COE&BackColorInternet=C3C3C3&BackColorIntranet=EDB021&BackColorLogged=F5D383&direct=true
Timestamp: 2016-08-28 16:34:40
Document Index: 80326979

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 2', '§ 6', 'Art121', '§ 1', '§ 4', '§ 1', '§ 3', 'art 3', '§ 3']

- Statutory Resolution CM/Res(2015)9 relating to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe and the revised Charter appended thereto
During the formal session, the speaker’s list is drawn up under the responsibility of the Chair. Speaking time is allotted to Ministers and political figures. Member States may present national position papers containing detailed statements in writing on the topics under discussion, either to provide a more detailed statement on an issue than the time allocated for an oral statement would allow, or for delegations not represented at ministerial/political level to be able to give their views. Documents should be submitted in one of the official languages.5 There is no speaker’s list for the informal discussions.
During the formal Session, besides the two official languages, simultaneous interpretation is provided in German, Italian and Russian, as well as Spanish (passive). During the informal working lunch/dinner, simultaneous interpretation is provided in English and French.6
In accordance with Article 14b. of the Rules of Procedure of the CM, the way in which the Deputies’ powers are exercised and the procedure for their meetings are determined by their own Rules of Procedure. The boxed text below reproduces the current edition.7
4. When a meeting of the Deputies has been arranged in accordance with the provisions of this Article, any request for postponement shall be made at least fifteen days before the date fixed for the opening of the meeting; a decision to postpone the meeting shall be regarded as taken if two-thirds of the Members inform the Secretary General of their agreement at least seven days before the date originally fixed. A decision to advance the date of the meeting shall be regarded as taken only if all the Members inform the Secretary General of their agreement at least fifteen days before the new date which has been proposed. Meetings of the Deputies are organised along the following lines, whilst maintaining some flexibility: 8
· extraordinary meetings may be convened by the Chair on urgent matters following proposals by one or more delegations or the SG and following consultations, notably with the Bureau;9
During normal private meetings of the Deputies, the SG or the DSG may be present at all times. The SG is responsible for ensuring that presence of Secretarial staff during such sessions is limited to the minimum necessary.10
When greater privacy is envisaged, the Deputies may hold discussion in a more restricted session (“in camera”). Any delegation has a right to propose that an item be discussed in camera. The proposal may be made in a written note to the Chair, who in that case announces it without identifying the delegation concerned. The meeting will go into restricted session immediately upon this announcement, following which the requesting delegation is given the floor to justify its request. The decision as to whether to maintain a restricted session or to ask specified members of the Secretariat to be present during the discussion of the item concerned or to revert to normal session is taken by a simple majority of votes cast, in accordance with Article 9.3 of the Rules of Procedure.11
The EU participates in meetings of the Deputies and subsidiary groups12.
Observer States may observe regular meetings of the Deputies. Nevertheless, member States may hold in camera discussions if they deem it appropriate13. The Chair should be able to invite, for discussions of special importance in the CM, high-ranking representatives from non-member States and from international organisations following consultation with the Bureau and the Committee.14 4. Composition of delegations (Article 4)
b. Recommendations of the [Parliamentary] Assembly15;
c. Other texts adopted by the [Parliamentary] Assembly16;
The draft agendas are prepared by the Chair and the Secretariat in accordance with guidelines set by the Deputies17. Given that the CM should be concerned primarily with the strategic and political orientation of the Council, agendas should mainly include items of a political nature and/or items requiring a decision. Moreover, to enhance the role of the CM as a political forum, substantial discussions on topical questions of pan-European significance are in principle held on a regular basis (total of 4-6 per year). Member States suggest topics for discussion and may provide documents to introduce a thematic discussion18 and CM statements on major events are encouraged.
Since July 2007, thematic monitoring exercises take place on an ad hoc basis, on a theme chosen by the CM. The modalities currently in force for the CM’s thematic monitoring procedure are set out in CM/Del/Dec(2007)999/2.2 app219 and are based on the 1994 CM Declaration on compliance with commitments undertaken by member States which is the legal basis for the CM's monitoring, including the thematic monitoring exercise. Draft agendas should contain items ready for decision and take into account the time available. They should not include items that are not urgent or which could usefully be prepared by the relevant subsidiary body.
The draft agendas are regularly up-dated on the website and one paper copy is published just before the meeting with the most up-to-date information possible.20 Items proposed by Secretariat Departments for examination are generally only included definitively on agendas once the Secretariat of the CM had received and distributed the necessary working documents.21 The titles of Assembly recommendations and written questions are quoted inside inverted commas within CM's documentation22. The reports of Conventional Committees and other such bodies are not automatically placed on the Deputies’ agenda, unless action by the CM is required or unless a delegation so requests.23 The reports are circulated to all delegations and marked to the effect that they will not be placed on the agenda unless a delegation so requests. Order of business
After adopting the agenda, the Deputies adopt the order of business based on a draft proposed by the Chair. The draft order of business is distributed as early as possible in advance of the meeting.24
Meetings are organised along the following lines while maintaining some flexibility:25
Any delegation could request that an item be removed from the box, even on the day of the meeting, under the item 'Adoption of the Agenda'. However, in order to provide all delegations with appropriate notice of this fact, it is highly recommended that two working days' notice be provided in writing to the Chair. If an item is removed from the box on the day of the meeting, the item should be postponed to the next meeting of the Deputies.26
The SG assembles the material required by the representatives on the CM and distributes it to them.28 Documents are distributed in the two official languages.29 The documentation includes basic documents required for discussion and Notes on the agenda setting out the draft decisions. The Secretariat prepares Notes on the agenda only when they give added value to the Deputies' discussions and/or when they are necessary for preparing the Deputies' decisions.30
The presentation of documents should be standardised according to the following principles: concise, clear, and short. They should include at the beginning a summary, clearly defined recommendations for action to be taken, possible resource implications (financial and human) and a contact point. The summary should include, inter alia, the background, the reason for inclusion of the item on the agenda, the aim and the proposed outcome, the previous steps taken in examining the issue and any other element that might be considered important.31
Documents should be presented in both official languages within the deadlines set by the CM. In very exceptional and urgent cases, documents should be submitted no later than 24 hours before their consideration.
4 weeks before the meeting32 Notes on the agenda
the Friday before the week preceding the meeting33 Decisions
to be distributed within three working days after the end of the meeting34
one month before the meeting35
one paper copy of each language of documents is sent to delegations on the 'navette36
access to documents is provided electronically on “CM Direct”. This also applies to amended decisions and to documents made available during the course of meetings. Paper copies are not provided in the meeting room.37
6. Chair (Article 6) and the conduct of meetings38
The Chair is held by a Permanent Representative. 39
The Chair acts in a neutral way and ensures that the rules and guidelines are respected. The Chair guides the discussions, put proposals to the vote and announce decisions.40
Whenever appropriate, delegations are encouraged to communicate to the Chair the positions they are likely to take in a forthcoming meeting. When that includes proposals for amending texts, delegations are encouraged to suggest specific wording in writing beforehand. Delegations which wish to raise an item for discussion during the Deputies’ meeting should inform the Chair as early as possible in advance.41
Delegations are encouraged to limit the use of courtesies during meetings. When formal statements of some length have to be made, they should ideally be summarised briefly drawing attention to highlights and conclusions, the full written text being distributed separately as early as possible before the meeting and included, if appropriate, in the records of the meeting.
1. English and French shall be the official languages, in accordance with Article 12 of the Statute. 2. A Deputy may speak in any other language, but in that case he himself shall provide for interpretation into one of the official languages. 9. Voting (Article 9)42
Decisions on the opening for signature of conventions and agreements concluded within the Council shall be taken by a two-thirds majority of the Representatives casting a vote and a majority of the Representatives entitled to sit on the CM, as set out in Article 20.d of the Statute.43 CM Recommendations
In 1994, the Deputies agreed upon a “gentleman’s agreement” amongst themselves to the effect that no delegation should request the application of the rule of unanimity provided for under Article 20.a (i) of the Statute to block the adoption of recommendations to the governments of member States, if the majority foreseen in Article 20.d of the Statute has been attained (i.e. a two-thirds majority of the Representatives casting a vote and a majority of the Representatives entitled to sit on the CM).44
In 1994, the Deputies, noting that no binding decision on this subject exists in the Statute, agreed to adopt replies to the Assembly then on by a two-thirds majority of the Representatives casting a vote and a majority of the Representatives entitled to sit on the CM, as set out in Article 20.d of the Statute, considering that every effort will be made to reach a consensus within a reasonable period of time. They also agreed to specify, at the beginning of the text of an answer of the CM to the Assembly, if a delegation should request it, that this answer was adopted by a majority as provided by Article 20.d of the Statute.45
In accordance with the Statutory Resolution on Partial and Enlarged Agreements, decisions authorising certain member States to pursue an activity as a Partial Agreement are taken by a two-thirds majority of the Representatives casting a vote and a majority of the Representatives entitled to sit on the CM, as set out in Article 20.d of the Statute.46 (See also Chapter VII, § 2: Partial Agreements.)
Decisions pursuant to Articles 24.1 and 25.2 of the framework convention shall be considered to be adopted if two-thirds of the representatives of Contracting Parties casting a vote, including a majority of the representatives of the Contracting Parties entitled to sit on the CM, vote in favour. This rule may be revised whenever the CM deems it appropriate.47 Appointments to various functions and bodies
d. record his abstention which may be accompanied by an explanatory statement, which shall not prevent the Deputies from reaching a decision in accordance with the provisions of Article 9 of the present Rules. 3. A two-thirds majority is obtained if two-thirds of the Deputies casting a vote and the majority of the Deputies entitled to vote, vote in the same sense48. 4. A simple majority requires the votes of half of the number of the Deputies entitled to vote, plus one49.
5. Only affirmative and negative votes shall count in calculating the number of votes cast. 6. After the result of a vote has been announced a Deputy may, with the agreement of his colleagues expressed by a simple majority, change the position which he adopted during the vote. 7. Before proceeding to a vote, the Chairman may ask the Deputies to express their views on an indicative basis. The Deputies agreed upon a “gentleman’s agreement” amongst themselves to the effect that their delegations would endeavour, whenever possible, not to abstain when voting on the inclusion of activities in the intergovernmental programme of activities.50 Silent procedures/adoption of decisions ad referendum
Use of silent procedures/adoption of decisions ad referendum should be encouraged. The normal deadline is one and a half working days.51
The following rules apply to the ad referendum procedure52:
The Secretary General or his representative may, at any time, make a written or oral statement on any subject under discussion. It is customary for the SG to make a communication at the beginning of each meeting of the Deputies (except DH meetings) at which he/she is present under the item 1.3 – Dialogue with the SG and the DSG.53
Different exchanges of views with external personalities are held in accordance with specific guidelines54 depending on the persons concerned:
depending on rank and/or subject matter received either by the Deputies themselves, or in a special meeting of the Deputies55, or by one of the subsidiary bodies56 Commissioner, President of the Congress, President of the Conference of INGOs, External Auditor
twice per year (end of January before the opening of the judicial year and early July), without duplicating the work in the framework of the GT-REF.ECHR. The Court distributes an information document shortly before each meeting, so that Deputies can have an informed exchange of views. Either party could request additional exchanges of views if necessary57
annual hearing of the CPT, pf the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the protection of national minorities and of the European Committee of Social Rights58. The chairs of other conventional committees are normally heard in the appropriate subsidiary body
The Deputies agreed in 2001 that verbatim transcriptions should be used only very exceptionally.59
In 2007, the Deputies agreed that, in future, the Records of Deputies' meetings held on the occasion of the transfer of the Chairmanship should be more complete, possibly containing the statements of all delegations, if they so agreed.60
Adoption of Decisions61
When an item is dealt with without debate ("in the box"), the draft decisions are adopted together with the order of business.62
When an item has been discussed, the draft decisions are approved, amended or replaced.
In the event of amendment or replacement, the draft decisions are formally approved at the end of the meeting during the “adoption of decisions”. If no change is made to the draft decisions, they are considered adopted.
DH meetings are Deputies’ meetings which are devoted to the supervision of the execution of judgments and decisions of the Court.63 The exercise of the powers of the CM is governed by the Rules of the CM for the supervision of the execution of judgments and of the terms of friendly settlements.
The rules of procedure governing the Deputies’ meetings apply to DH meetings, unless otherwise provided (see below).64
The Deputies have further agreed additional and specific working methods for the DH meetings to deal with the ever increasing workload. The latest system for the supervision of the execution was adopted by the Deputies in December 2010. 65
An indicative list of cases proposed for inclusion on the draft order of business for the next meeting is distributed to delegations three weeks after the last meeting. Until distribution of this list, delegations have the possibility to propose cases for inscription.
The draft order of business is issued one month before the meeting. Delegations may propose amendments up to 10 calendar days before the meeting. After expiry of this time-limit, a revised draft order of business is issued, on the basis of comments received. The list of cases included in the draft order of business is made public a few days in advance of the meeting66.
For case management, the draft order of business includes a number of draft decisions, in principle taken without debate, such as the classification of new judgments and new decisions of the Court, the supervision of the payment of just satisfaction, the transmission of action plans and the adoption of resolutions closing the examination of certain cases. It also includes a table of cases already listed for detailed examination at future meetings by earlier decisions of the CM (Appendix 3). This list is made public at the end of each meeting.
The Bureau consists of six members in the English alphabetical order (the present Chair, the two previous Chairs and the three future Chairs).67
The Bureau’s decisions are generally taken by consensus. If however consensus cannot be reached, decisions are taken by a simple majority, the Chair having a casting vote68.
Main Tasks69
IV. THE DEPUTIES’ RAPPORTEUR GROUPS/THEMATIC COORDINATORS/WORKING PARTIES70
Rapporteur groups/Ad hoc working parties/Thematic coordinators are informal working structures of the Deputies and have no decision-making power. They prepare decisions for the CM for adoption, ideally without debate.71
Rapporteur Groups are open to all delegations wishing to take part in the activities, to the EU and to states enjoying observer status with the CM. 72 Their members shall be permanent representatives or their deputies. They will be assisted by the Secretariat (and, where necessary, the Chair or members of committees of experts).
The current list of Rapporteur Groups is: GR-DEM, GR-EXT, GR-PBA, GR-C, GR-H, GR-J and GR-SOC. 73
1.2.1 Selection procedure74
In case of a vote on the list of candidates, the candidate obtaining the simple majority of votes within the meaning of Article 10.4 of the rules of Procedure for the Meetings of the Deputies (ie, half of the number of the Deputies entitled to vote, plus one) and the largest number of votes shall be declared elected.75
The term of office of each Chair of a Rapporteur Group is two years, in principle non-renewable, from the date of his/her nomination by the Deputies. This period may, however, be extended by the Deputies in exceptional cases, where continuity in the activities embarked upon by a particular group is required. The term of office of thematic Rapporteur Group Chairs should start in priniciple in September and that of the GR-PBA should be synchronised with the biennial Programme and Budget cycle.76
Within each Rapporteur Group the Chair has an instigating and guiding role in the group's sphere of work. He or she reports to the Deputies on the group's work when the items that the group has prepared come up for discussion. Rapporteur Group Chairs should regularly inform the Chair of the Deputies and/or the Bureau of the progress made by their groups. The Chair of the Deputies may also hold meetings with all Rapporteur Groups Chairs; this may be particularly useful at the beginning of a Chairmanship to allow for better planning of the work.77
In consultation with the Chair of the Deputies, the Chairs of the Rapporteur Groups could briefly present issues which deserve special attention because of their importance in terms of the Organisation’s priorities. When a group has prepared a decision on an important subject, the Rapporteur Group Chair could – without reopening the debate and after adoption of the decision in the box – underline the significance of the decision to the Deputies.78
The guidelines for the conduct of meetings of the Deputies (see Chapter III, § 6.1: Guidelines for the conduct of meetings above) apply mutatis mutandis to the Chairs of Rapporteur groups. In addition, the following guidelines should also be applied:79
Each Rapporteur Group deals, in close contact with the SG, with matters falling within its field of activity.80 As such, it plays a part in the supervision of progress and results of the programme of activities.
1.4.2 Meetings81
· meetings should only be convened when the agenda justifies it; as appropriate, the GR-DEM may hold a meeting every 3-4 weeks; the GR-PBA and GR-H every 4 weeks; the other GRs every 6 weeks; GTs as their task requires; additional meetings may be organised if necessary; where appropriate, ad hoc meetings should be considered on a single item to target questions which would lend themselves to this;82
Interpretation is in principle provided, unless there is an express agreement from the Chair of a particular group that a meeting may be held without interpretation.83
Rapporteur Groups’ agendas are in principle drawn up at the instigation of the Deputies or the Deputies' Bureau. It falls to the Rapporteur Group Chairs to organise the work of the group and conduct the discussions, taking account of the issues at stake.84 Agendas should be organised to enable informed discussion so that substantive decisions can be taken on essential issues; foresee more regular exchanges of views with the chairs of steering committees so as to more closely follow the progress and outcome of the programmes of activities; invite more frequently heads of Council of Europe offices and other experts to meetings of the rapporteur groups for more thorough discussions.85
Within their particular spheres of activity, the Chair of each Rapporteur Group and the Group itself has room for initiative. In the interest of consistency, however, they keep the Chair of the Deputies informed of their draft agendas, and he or she may decide to consult the Bureau and, if necessary, the Deputies.
At their meetings, Rapporteur Groups endeavour to make use of annotated agendas and Chairs of the Deputies' Rapporteur Groups seek to comply with the deadline for circulation. Meeting synopses should provide a succinct record of the content of the debates without, as far as possible, identifying the delegations concerned. The presentation of documents should be standardised according to the following principles: concise, clear, and short. They should include at the beginning a summary, clearly defined recommendations for action to be taken, possible resource implications (financial and human) and a contact point.86 The summary should include, inter alia, the background, the reason for inclusion of the item on the agenda, the aim and the proposed outcome, the previous steps taken in examining the issue and any other element that might be considered important.87
Documents should be presented in both official languages within the deadlines set by the CM. In very exceptional and urgent cases, documents should be submitted no later than 24 hours before their consideration. In principle, the deadlines for Rapporteur Group documents are:88
- delegations should ideally present proposed amendments in writing 3-5 working days before the date of the meeting. Steering and expert committee reports and reports from conferences should be presented in the first instance to the competent Rapporteur Groups/Thematic coordinator within one month of the meeting; it being understood that the work of the Steering Committees will not be duplicated.89
Representatives of non-member States without observer status are allowed to participate, on an ad hoc basis, in meetings of the Rapporteur Groups, if the topic to be discussed directly concerns those countries, upon invitation by the Chair of the relevant Group and with the prior agreement of the CM, in accordance with Article 20.a. of the Statute.90
Concerning Belarus, the GR-DEM may hold ad hoc exchanges of views with the representative of Belarus to the Council of Europe when the agenda of the GR-DEM includes issues concerning co-operation with Belarus.91
Concerning Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia, the GR-EXT can hold exchanges of views with representatives of Ministries and relevant institutions of these countries when discussing items relevant to co-operation and following-up the implementation of the Neighbourhood Partnership.92
Where appropriate, the Chair of each Rapporteur Group and the Group itself may make any contact outside the Council. Such contacts are made after consulting the Chair of the Deputies in good time, who may decide to refer the matter to the Bureau and, if necessary, the Deputies. Delegations should be informed in good time of the participation of outside personalities in group meetings.93
Rapporteur Groups are encouraged to invite a representative of the European Roma and Travellers Forum (ERTF) to their meetings as an observer whenever engaging in a debate of particular concern to the Roma and Travellers.94
The Chairperson of the Staff Committee is authorised to attend meetings and follow the proceedings of the GR-PBA on a regular basis, it being understood that the existing provisions on relations between staff and the CM, as set out in the Article 7 of the Regulations on staff participation (Appendix I of the Staff Regulations), remained valid.95
Thematic coordinators (“TC”) are appointed by the CM to follow certain areas of importance to the Organisation.96
The work of Thematic coordinators should be coordinated with that of the CM. In particular:97
The term of office of each TC is, in principle, two98 years not renewable, from the date of his/her nomination by the Deputies. This period may be extended by the Deputies in exceptional cases where continuity in the activities embarked upon by a particular TC is required. The CM will take a decision to continue, redirect or discontinue a TC towards the end of each mandate.99
TCs should have a mandate approved by the CM. The mandates should be readily accessible on the CM web-site. 100 TCs may be asked to consider matters relating to the Deputies’ work, on the basis of the principle of individual work – collective decision. They work in close contact with the SG and the relevant Secretariat departments and, where this proves necessary, place at the disposal of the plenary committee their experience in their specific field.
There are currently no ad hoc working parties.
All ad hoc working parties should have mandates and be limited in time. The mandates, approved by the CM, should be readily accessible on the CM web-site.101
Concerning the procedure for election of the SG, the CM agreed in 2007 that it will henceforth present to the Assembly candidates who enjoy a high level of recognition, are well-known among their peers and the people of Europe, and have previously served as Heads of State or Government, or held senior ministerial office or similar status relevant to the post, and asks the governments of member States to present candidates who match this profile.102 The CM and the Assembly have adopted a joint interpretative statement on Rules and procedures for the future elections of the SG.103 This statement clarifies the consultation process between the Assembly and the CM. The calendar for the election of the SG and a competence framework are appended to that statement. It also specifies that the CM may vote when drawing-up the list of candidates. In this context, it is recalled that Article 20.d of the Statute (i.e. two-thirds majority of the representatives casting a vote and of a majority of the representatives entitled to sit on the CM) applies in the absence of a consensus on the list of candidates to be submitted to the Assembly.
Concerning the DSG, the Deputies, having agreed with the Assembly in the Joint Committee on 26 January 2012, approved a competence framework for the post of DSG.104
Article 9 of Resolution Res(99)50 stipulates that the Commissioner shall be elected by the Assembly by a majority of votes cast from a list of three candidates drawn up by the CM. The Deputies apply the following procedure for drawing up a list of three candidates:105
The Panel shall be composed of seven members, chosen from among members of the highest national courts, former judges of international courts, including the Court and other lawyers of recognised competence, who shall serve in their personal capacity. The composition of the Panel shall be geographically and gender balanced.106
The members of the Panel shall be appointed by the CM following consultations with the President of the Court. Proposals for appointment may be submitted by the High Contracting Parties. Any vacancy shall be filled in the same manner. Members shall be appointed for a term of three years, renewable once. Where a member of the Panel does not complete his/her term, a successor will be appointed for a full term. Members of the Panel shall be from different member States.107
The Deputies applied the following procedure for the appointment of the first panel in December 2010:108
- their Chair was entrusted, in contact with the Chair of the Ad hoc working party on Reform of the Human Rights Convention system (GT-REF.ECHR)109 and the Chair of the then Liaison Committee with the European DD Court of Human Rights (CL-CEDH)110, with carrying out the necessary consultations in order to present proposals regarding the composition of the Panel;
4. Other functions and bodies111
The Deputies agreed to harmonise procedures and voting arrangements for the appointment of members of certain bodies112 and functions113 as follows: 4.1 Calls for candidatures
- A reminder of the Council’s principles on ensuring balanced representation of women and men.114
- the candidate or candidates obtaining the simple majority of votes115 (ie, half of the number of the Deputies entitled to vote, plus one) and the largest number of votes shall be declared elected,
- if one seat, or more, remain(s) vacant after the first vote, there will be a second round of voting. The candidate(s) having obtained the highest number of votes will be declared elected, except for the CPT where a simple majority is required.116
The current list of intergovernmental committees can be found in the intergovernmental committees' database117.
The list of other committees can be found in the documents 'Committees established by a Committee of Ministers Resolution or a Convention' and 'Committees set up under Partial Agreements'.118
The Deputies use the wording “the Committee of Ministers/the Deputies in its/their composition restricted to the representatives of the states members of [a partial agreement]” in their decisions relating to such agreements.119
The use of the Foyer of the CM is subject to prior authorisation by the CM. Any request is first considered by the Bureau of the Deputies, which makes a recommendation to the CM, in application of the regulations. 120
Gifts to the Council are subject to prior authorisation of the CM. The Committee for Works of Art121 is responsible for recommending to the CM whether to accept offers of gifts and their appropriate location within the Council premises. The CM adopts the rules governing the functioning of the Committee for Works of Art and criteria for gifts.122
Ever since the inception of the Council, the Assembly and the CM have sought procedures and other means of improving relations and facilitating communication between them. The most recent are set out in document CM(2009)142.123 The SG was also tasked with drawing up a report on ways to enhance working relations between the two organs which he presented in the Joint Committee in June 2010.124
- the Statutory report, prepared by the Secretariat of the CM, giving information on CM activities and decisions which are already available in a dispersed manner. The Statutory Report is produced in electronic form only, is regularly updated and contains links to appropriate documentation;125
The Joint Committee is the organ of co-ordination between the CM and the Assembly. It is composed of the representatives on the CM and a corresponding number of representatives of the Assembly (the members of the Bureau and one representative of each parliamentary delegation of member States not represented on the Bureau).126 Its functions and rules of procedure are set out in Statutory Resolution Res(51)30 PartC. Meetings are held on an ad hoc basis, as necessary.
The President of the Assembly is invited to all Ministerial sessions.127
Meetings between the Chair of the Deputies and the President of the Assembly take place regularly to inform about each other’s work. Since 2009, informal meetings on questions of common interest between the Bureau of the CM and the Presidential Committee of the Assembly have been used for an exchange of information and discussion in a working and informal atmosphere. Working contacts and informal dialogue between Chairs of Rapporteur groups/thematic coordinators/working parties and Chairs and Rapporteurs of Assembly committees, and cross-participation in each others’ fora where appropriate, are encouraged.128
When conducting their initial examination of the texts adopted by the Assembly, the Deputies adopt a reply common to all the texts, dealing with the procedure to be followed.129
The following guidelines for drawing up draft replies apply: 130
- priority should be given to final replies (taking stock of the situation while at the same time informing the Assembly of the intentions of the CM with regard to the specific proposals); - priority should be given to substance rather than procedure;131 - draft replies shall be as short, concise and result-oriented as possible;
Replies to the Assembly are adopted by a two-thirds majority of the representatives casting a vote and a majority of the representatives entitled to sit on the CM,132 considering that every effort will be made to reach a consensus within a reasonable period of time. If a delegation should request, it is specified at the beginning of the text of a reply, that “this answer was adopted by a majority as provided by Article 20.d of the Statute”.133 1.4.4 Titles of Assembly Recommendations
The titles of Assembly Recommendations are quoted inside inverted commas within CM documentation.134
Information on the action the CM has taken on Assembly recommendations is regularly included in the written reports prepared by the chairmanship at each session, and a comprehensive report on this action is forwarded to the Assembly every year.135
Questions should be in the remit of the Council in so far as they deal with controversial bilateral questions. Priority should be given to questions tabled by groups of Parliamentarians and to questions on subjects immediately relevant to the Council’s activities.136 Procedure for replying
On the understanding that the primary objective of the CM remains that of drafting a consensual reply to written questions of Parliamentarians and with a view to speeding up replies to written questions, the following procedure applies:137 - the item is placed on the agenda (as far as possible within 10 days of being submitted) for an exchange of views (oral and/or in writing), setting out the number of the written question, its author and its title, the latter in quotation marks138.
i. either instruct the Secretariat to prepare a draft reply; ii. or invite the Chair to hold informal consultations in order to explore the possibility of arriving at a consensual draft reply. - written questions should receive a reply within 3 months whenever possible. Draft replies shall be as short, concise and result-oriented as possible139.
- the Secretariat makes use of the written procedure in the preparation of draft replies to written questions, before including a draft reply on the agenda for adoption by the Deputies140.
- if, in the light of consultations, the Chair notes that it appears impossible to prepare a consensual reply, he/she informs the CM accordingly. The CM may then decide, by a two-thirds majority of the representatives casting a vote and a majority of the representatives entitled to sit on the CM,141 to instruct the Chair to inform the President of the Assembly that, "owing to a lack of consensus it has not been possible to adopt a reply". The Chair’s letter would not be a reply of substance. Adoption of replies: majority required
The practice is to require the unanimous vote of the representatives casting a vote and of a majority of the representatives entitled to sit on the CM.142 1.5.2 Written questions addressed to the Chair-in-office of the CM143
The following procedure with regard to written questions of parliamentarians to the Chair of the CM applies:144
The CM, before inviting a State to become a member or associate member of the Council, in accordance with Articles 4 and 5 of the Statute, or inviting a member of the Council to withdraw, in accordance with Article 8, shall first consult the Assembly.145
The CM has agreed to consult the Assembly on all draft treaties, except on a small number of treaties, of an exclusively technical nature, which may not require such consultation.146
Timetables for consultation on new draft treaties will be established allowing the Assembly to give its opinion without undue haste and within a reasonable timeframe (3 months).147
The SG submits the annual budget for adoption by the CM.148 He/She shall refer to the CM requests from the Assembly which involve expenditure exceeding the amount already allocated in the budget for the Assembly and its activities.
The Assembly's opinion on its part of the draft budget shall be transmitted to the CM at the same time as the draft budget.149
The budgetary package technique is applied to the Assembly's budget, excluding appropriations for staff related expenditure, thereby affording the Assembly considerable budgetary freedom within the budgetary package.150
The Assembly is consulted regarding the draft Programme and Budget of the Organisation (see Chapter X, § 1: Programme and Budget of the Council of Europe). This consultation is organised with due regard to the role and prerogatives of both organs.151
The Assembly may send representatives to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers.152
The Congress is a consultative organ composed of representatives of local and regional authorities. Its membership and functions are regulated by Statutory Resolution CM/Res(2015)9, by the Charter adopted by the Committee of Ministers and by the Rules of Procedure adopted by the Congress.
The Congress may send representatives to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers.153
The Deputies approved criteria for the granting of observer status.154
Observer states may observe regular meetings of the Deputies’ meetings from September 2006. Nevertheless, member States may hold in camera discussions if they deem it appropriate.155
Observers may participate in the subsidiary groups, unless the meetings were held in camera or other ad hoc arrangements had been decided.156
Among non-member States without observer status, a special framework is provided for dialogue with countries in neighbouring regions, in particular within the framework of the preparation and implementation of the Neighbourhood Co-operation Priorities.157
At this stage, the Deputies have endorsed priorities for co-operation with Kazakhstan and Morocco158, as well as with Tunisia159 and Jordan160.
Representatives of non-member States without observer status are allowed to participate, on an ad hoc basis, in meetings of the Rapporteur Groups, if the topic to be discussed directly concerns those countries, upon invitation by the Chair of the relevant Group and with the prior agreement of the CM, in accordance with Article 20.a. of the Statute.161
Concerning Belarus, the GR-DEM may hold ad hoc exchanges of views with the representative of Belarus to the Council of Europe when the agenda of the GR-DEM includes issues concerning co-operation with Belarus.162
Concerning Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia, the GR-EXT can hold exchanges of views with representatives of Ministries and relevant institutions of these countries when discussing items relevant to co-operation and following-up the implementation of the Neighbourhood Partnership.163
Ministers of non-member States without observer status wishing to participate in conferences of specialised ministers may be invited to do so, after having obtained the consent of the CM, which shall determine the conditions of such participation (cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)7).
The relations between the Council and the EU are described in the texts reflected in the Compendium of Texts and in the Memorandum of Understanding.164
‘High Level Political Dialogue Meetings’ take place between the Chairmanship of the CM, the SG and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.165 They are complemented by informal ad hoc agenda-driven meetings between the SG and leaders of the EU. A yearly report on co-operation between the Council and the EU is prepared by the GR-EXT.166
Co-operation between the Council and the EU's Fundamental Rights Agency is based on the agreement which is set out in CM(2008)74 rev.167 In this context, the CM appoints an independent person to sit on the Management and Executive Boards of the Agency (for the appointment procedure, see Chapter V, § 4: Other functions and bodies).
A Representative of the EU participates in the various meetings of the Deputies and their subsidiary groups.168 5.1.4 Participation in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers
The EU may send representatives to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers.169
Cooperation between the Council and the OSCE is based on the Declaration on co-operation between the Council of Europe and the OSCE.170
- Co-ordination Group171 meetings, as necessary and at least every six months. The meetings are hosted alternately by the OSCE and the Council. The participants are Permanent Representatives from the Troika of the OSCE, the current and incoming Chair of the CM. The meetings are open to Permanent Representatives of the countries in the Bureau of the CM, the Chair of the Rapporteur Group on External Relations (GR-EXT) as well as representatives from the Secretariats of the two organisations. Focal points from the two sides are appointed in areas selected as priorities.172 The Council focal points are:
The GR-EXT contributes to the preparation of the agendas of the Coordination Group’s meetings, by holding substantive discussions thereon well in advance173.
The OSCE may participate in meetings of the Rapporteur Group on External Relations (GR-EXT) for items dealing with relations between the Council of Europe and the OSCE, the OSCE being represented by the country holding the OSCE Chairmanship, assisted, if necessary, by a member of the OSCE Secretariat.174
The OSCE may be invited to send representatives to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers under the conditions laid down in the respective CM resolutions. 175 5.3 United Nations 5.3.1 General
The relations between the Council and the UN are based on the Agreement between the Secretariat General of the Council of Europe and the Secretariat of the United Nations signed on 15 December 1951176 and on the Arrangement on Co-operation and Liaison between the Secretariats of the United Nations and the Council of Europe (exchange of letters of 17 October 1971). The Council was granted observer status with the UN on 17 October 1989 (UN General Assembly Resolution 44/6 of 17 October 1989).
Every other year, the UN General Assembly adopts a resolution on co-operation between the UN and the Council to coincide with its debate on co-operation with regional and other organisations.177 A draft of such a resolution is prepared and adopted by the CM in Strasbourg. The CM Chair is then asked to table the draft with the UN in New York and hold the necessary consultations towards its adoption by the UNGA, preferably without a vote.
The Deputies hold an annual exchange of views on the UN (human rights questions) with the participation of experts from capitals.178 5.3.4 Participation in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers
The UN may be invited to send representatives to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers under the conditions laid down in the respective CM resolutions.179 5.4 Other international organisations
The CM may adopt co-operation documents with other international organisations and various institutions on an ad hoc basis. 5.4.2 Participation in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers
Representatives of other international organisations may be invited to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers under the conditions laid down in the respective CM resolutions.180
The Council may establish working relations with INGOs by granting them participatory status. The rules for participatory status, and the CM’s role in that procedure, as well as the modalities of cooperation, are set out in Resolution Res(2003)8 on Participatory status for international non-governmental organisations with the Council of Europe. The Resolution also foresees the possibility for practical co-operation on an ad hoc basis between the Secretariat and other NGOs in any field of mutual interest.
Representative(s) of the Conference of INGOs are entitled to take part in the meetings of intergovernmental committees and subordinate bodies as participants and to conferences of specialised ministers where it has specific expertise in the matters to be discussed.181 Representatives of other non-governmental organisations may be invited to participate in intergovernmental committees and in conferences of specialised ministers under the conditions laid down in the respective CM resolutions.182
The consent of the CM should be given prior to the appointment of special representatives to fulfil political missions in the spirit of reinforcing democratic stability.183
The Programme and Budget of the Organisation covers two consecutive financial years (“the biennium”). It presents for each financial year of the biennium the General Budget (Ordinary Budget, Extraordinary Budget, Budget of the European Youth Foundation, the Pensions reserve fund and any subsidiary budgets thereto) and the budgets of the partial and enlarged agreements. It is also includes information in respect of estimated voluntary contributions for each year.184
The Programme sets the Organisation's objectives for the biennium, along with expected results and performance indicators. The Budget authorises the budgetary receipts and budgetary expenditure of the Organisation for the implementation of the Programme for each of the financial years of the biennium. The SG proposes, and the CM approves, the Programme and Budget in accordance with the Financial Regulations.185
The CM approves the Programme for the biennium and the Budget for the first financial year, as well as the Budget for the second financial year on a provisional basis, before the beginning of the biennium. The CM approves the Budget and if applicable the revised Programme for the second financial year before 1 November of the first financial year in the biennium.186
- -distribution of draft Priorities document mid April B-1
- decision by the Committee of Ministers on the main orientations framework of the Secretary General’s proposals end April/beginning May B-1
before end September B(1)
If the Programme and Budget cannot be adopted within the prescribed deadlines, the CM shall authorise the SG to incur expenditure on a monthly basis of an amount not exceeding one twelfth of the previous financial year’s Budget and to call contributions from each member State amounting to one third of its contribution to the previous financial year’s Budget.187
The Financial Regulations are adopted by the CM. They contain inter alia the rules concerning the Programme and Budget, member States’ contributions and other income, the management of the funds, the financial statements and the budgetary management accounts as well as the Budget Committee, the External Auditor, the Internal Auditor, the Oversight Advisory Committee and the Organisation's Treasurer.188 2.1.2 Budget Committee
In fulfilling its budgetary functions, the CM is assisted by a Budget Committee, made up of thirteen independent experts appointed by the CM (of which six upon presentation by the six major contributors).189 The procedure for the appointment of the members is appended to the Financial Regulations. The rules of procedure of the Budget Committee are laid down in internal regulations190 approved by the CM.191 Decisions on the admission of observers to the Budget Committee are taken by the CM.192
The SG appoints a high ranking official to the office of Treasurer. The Treasurer is responsible for safe custody and handling of the funds and assets of the Organisation. He or she also undertakes other responsibilities provided for in the Financial Regulations, particularly in matters of payment of expenditure and collection of receipts. 193
The SG appoints an Internal Auditor responsible for evaluating and contributing to the improvement of risk management, control, and governance processes. The Internal Auditor verifies that internal control is implemented in accordance with the provisions of the regulations and that appropriate administrative and financial management procedures are put in place.194 2.1.5 External Auditor
The CM appoints an External Auditor (a supreme audit institution of a member State), responsible inter alia for certifying the annual financial statements and budgetary management accounts of the Organisation and making observations with respect to the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of the financial procedures, the accounting system and the administration and management of the Organisation.195 The procedure for the appointment of the External Auditor is appended to the Financial Regulations.
2.1.6 Oversight Advisory Committee The CM appoints an Oversight Advisory Committee to exercise an independent appraisal of internal and external control systems of the quality of financial reporting and of follow-up given to Internal Oversight and External Audit recommendations.196 The complete terms of reference of the Oversight Advisory Committee are set out in Resolution CM/Res(2014)3.
The CM appoints the Management Board of the Pension Reserve Fund. The Board is responsible, subject to the control of the CM, for the management of the Fund. The Statute of the Fund and terms of reference of the Management Board are set out in Resolution Res(2006)1.197 2.1.8 Tenders Board
The SG appoints a Tenders Board which is responsible for overseeing call for tenders under the conditions laid down in the Financial Regulations.198 2.2 Partial and Enlarged Agreements
These budgets comprise the supplementary expenditure entailed by an agreement, to be shared among the participating states, and the various receipts to be set off against it. For each financial year of the biennium, they provide for a contribution to the pension reserve fund and an annual lump-sum contribution to administrative expenditure foreseen under the Ordinary Budget, determined on the basis of the amount of administrative expenditure included in the Budget for the second financial year of the previous biennium.199
In accordance with Article 38b of the Statute,200 member states’ contributions to the budgets are determined in accordance with Resolution Res(94)31 on the method of calculating the scales of member states' contributions to Council Budgets.
The Financial Regulations set out practical modalities for payment of contributions in application of Article 39 of the Statute.201 In particular, they stipulate that each member state shall pay at least one third of its obligatory contributions in the course of the first two months of the year and the balance by the end of the period of six months referred to in Article 39 of the Statute (in general, by the end of June). Member States that have not paid their entire contribution before the end of the period of six months are required to pay simple monthly interest of 0.5% on amounts remaining unpaid on the first day of each of the following six months, and 1% on amounts remaining unpaid on the first day of each month thereafter.
The CM has agreed that, apart from exceptional circumstances having prevented a member State from fulfilling its obligation, Article 9 of the Statute202 will be applied to any state which has failed to fulfil all or a substantial part of its financial obligation for a period of two years.203
They also contribute to the costs relating to the functioning and operation of Council of Europe conventions (see Chapter VII, § 1: Council of Europe Conventions) to which they are Parties, when the conventions concerned contain a clause on financial participation in their follow-up mechanisms.
The contribution of non-member States is governed by Resolution CM/Res(2015)1 concerning financial arrangements for the participation of non-member States in Council of Europe conventions.
The amount of the contribution is calculated in accordance with a specific method set out in the Appendix to the resolution, in the absence of a specific provision in the relevant convention.
The Financial Regulations provide that the SG may accept voluntary contributions, which are managed through special accounts. The purpose of these accounts must conform to the aims of the Council as set forth in its Statute.204
The general framework for the resource management and mobilisation strategy appears in document CM(2009)10 final.205
The rules for the opening and management of special accounts are adopted by the Deputies. These foresee that a special account may be opened for the Ordinary budget (one per vote), partial and enlarged agreements, joint programmes and other ad hoc purposes. All specifically identifiable items of expenditure arising from the activities financed by a special account shall be charged to that account, and receipts are subject to an administrative levy to cover general expenditure (associated administrative and logistical support costs), unless the CM decides otherwise.206 Unspent appropriations on special accounts shall be automatically carried forward to the following financial year until the termination of the activity for which they were intended, at which point any remaining balance will be allocated in accordance with the donor's instructions or by decision of the CM.207
Modalities in respect of the administrative levy are adopted and regularly updated by the Deputies. The current policy is set out in CM(2013)123.208 This foresees a fixed percentage levy of 7%, applicable to all extra-budgetary resources.
Documents supporting the decision process should set out resource implications (financial and human).209
The Evaluation Policy appears in document CM(2008)156 rev, as amended at the 1197th meeting of the Ministers' Deputies (16 April 2014).210
As a follow-up to the Third Summit in Warsaw (16 and 17 May 2005) 211, the Deputies approved criteria for launching, discontinuing and evaluating projects, set out in document CM(2006)101 final.212 3. Reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses to government experts and other persons travelling at the charge of Council of Europe budgets
Specific rules apply to the following categories:213
The CM adopts the Staff Regulations which are regularly updated. The SG is responsible to the CM for the work of the Secretariat.214 The Staff Regulations require specific information, consultation or authorisation of the CM in the following areas:
- Appendix IV – Regulations governing staff salaries and allowances (approval of the annual adjustment in application of the remuneration adjustment procedure adopted by the CM);215
In this context, the Chairperson of the Staff Committee is authorised to attend meetings and follow the proceedings of the GR-PBA on a regular basis, it being understood that the existing provisions on relations between staff and the CM, as set out in the Article 7 of the Regulations on staff participation, remained valid.216
On questions of salary scales and pensions, the CM is assisted by the Co-ordinating Committee on Remuneration (CCR), which reports to the Councils of the Co-ordinated Organisations.217 The Regulations concerning the co-ordination system are adopted by the CM. They are set out in document CM(2004)14,218 as amended by decision CM/Del/Dec(2007)1009/11.4.
The status and conditions of service of judges of the Court and of the Commissioner are set out in Resolution CM/Res(2009)5 as amended by CM/Res(2013)4 and CM/Res(2015)5.
The SG is required to prepare an annual report on the follow-up given to the above as well as on the implementation of the gender equality policy in the Council, including within Council bodies, entities and committees to be presented to the CM.219
Resolution Res(2001)6 regulates access to Council documents. The policy of access to CM documents is based on the following principles:220
With a view to further improving transparency of the work of the CM, the Secretariat is encouraged to make more use of lower level classifications.221
Any delegation wishing to prevent the automatic declassification of a document may do so by informing the Secretariat within 12 months of its date of issue. The Secretariat will periodically check whether an embargo on a document should stand.222
Unclassified unless the CM explicitly decide otherwise.223
Public one week in advance of meeting.224
Restricted.225
Confidential (unless a decision to declassify).226
Restricted at the date of issue and declassified after examination by the CM.227
Public at the same time as the corresponding recommendation or convention (except if an objection has been or is mentioned concerning this publication (in which case, the CM will decide according to the nature and motivation of this objection)).228
Thematic “monitoring” documents :229
Rules of the CM for the supervision of the execution of judgments and of the terms of friendly settlements230
- information and documents relating thereto provided by a High Contracting Party to the CM231
- annual report232
- action plans233
- action plans and action reports, together with relevant information provided by applicants, non-governmental organisations and national human rights institutions 234 will be promptly made public235 and put on line except where a motivated request for confidentiality is made at the time of submitting the information.
The rules on the access to Council documents236 apply as follows:
Steering Committees and Ad hoc Committees may themselves decide as to the publication of technical reports on certain activities. 237
Council of Europe Exchanges
Documents concerning the Council of Europe Exchanges on the religious dimension of intercultural dialogue
7 The text was approved by the Deputies at their 69th meeting (March 1959) and amended at their 133rd meeting (June 1964), 182nd and 183rd meetings (September and October 1969), 201st meeting (September 1971) and at their 934th meeting (July 2005).
8 First approved at the Deputies’ 951st meeting (CM/Del/Dec(2005)951/1.5), revised at the 1098th meeting (17 November 2010) (Cf. CM(2010)154 final) and at the 1134th meeting (15-16 February 2012) (Cf. CM(2011)96 final).
11 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(75)243/XL, decision 9
14 Cf. CM(99)64 - Approved at the 668th Deputies’ meeting (CM/Del/Dec(99)668/1.5), amended by CM/Del/Dec(2012)1145/1.9
15 By Recommendation is meant a proposal by the Assembly addressed to the CM, the implementation of which is beyond the province of the Assembly, but within that of governments.
16 A Resolution embodies a decision by the Assembly on a question of substance which it is empowered to put into effect, or an expression of view for which it alone is responsible. An Order is concerned with a question of form, transmission, execution or procedure. It must relate to a question already placed on the Assembly's Register and may not deal with the substance of that question. Nevertheless, the examination of such texts may on occasion lead the Deputies to take up a position.
17 Cf. CM(2011)96 final – Approved CM/Del/Dec(2012)1134/1.6
18 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2013)13 final - Thematic Debates of the Committee of Ministers – Procedure and modalities
19 The original modalities were adopted in 1995 (CM/Del/Dec(95)535/2.4 app7), modified in 2004 (CM/Del/Dec(2004)893/2.4 app6) and again in 2007 (CM/Del/Dec(2007)999/2.2 app2). No thematic monitoring exercise has yet been undertaken under the 2007 revised rules.
20 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2001)21 – Approved CM/Del/Dec(2001)769/1.4
21 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2001)26 – Approved CM/Del/Dec(2001)776/1.4
22 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2002)797/11.1 and CM/Del/Dec(2007)996/1.4
23 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(94)506/ADM3 which contains a list of the other bodies
24 Cf. GT-GR(2015)4
26 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2007)15 - Approved CM/Del/Dec(2007)1010/1.4
27 Cf. CM(2011)96 final
28 Cf. Article 21 of the Rules of procedure of the Committee of Ministers
29 Cf.Article 12 of the Statute
30 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2001)4
32 Cf. CM/Del/Concl(56)40/II
33 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(75)243/XL
34 Cf. Rules of procedure for the meetings of the Ministers’ Deputies, Article 16, § 3
35 Cf. CM/Inf/DH(2010)37, paragraph 31
36 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2009)1073/1.4
39 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(92)472/44 and Appendix 19, item 3 "Other considerations"
40 Article 9 of the Rules of procedure of the Committee of Ministers
41 Cf. GT-GR(2015)4
42 Statute of the Council of Europe - Article 20
43 Statutory Resolution Res(93)27 on majorities required for decisions of the Committee of Ministers
44 519bis meeting of the Ministers’ Deputies, (4 November 1994) – Item 2.2 para. C. (CM/Del/Dec(94)519bis/2.2)
45 519bis meeting of the Ministers’ Deputies, (4 November 1994) – Item 2.2 para. C. (CM/Del/Dec(94)519bis/2.2)
46 Statutory Resolution Res(93)27 on majorities required for decisions of the Committee of Ministers
48 The Council of Europe membership from 11 May 2007 being 47, a minimum of 24 votes in favour is necessary for a proposal to be adopted. Different possibilities concerning a 2/3 majority of votes cast and majority of the representatives enabled to sit on the Committee of Ministers are set out in CM/Inf(2007)22. 49 The Council of Europe membership from 11 May 2007 being 47, a minimum of 24 votes in favour is necessary for a proposal to be adopted. 50 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(90)443/8
54 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2008)2 rev - Approved CM/Del/Dec(2008)1021/1.4
55 Prior to 2008, in a meeting of the enlarged Bureau.
56 Representatives of non-member states without observer status to the Council of Europe are allowed to participate, on an ad hoc basis, in meetings of the Rapporteur Groups, if the topic to be discussed directly concerns those countries, upon invitation by the Chair of the relevant Group and with the prior agreement of the Committee of Ministers, in accordance with Article 20.a. of the Statute of the Council of Europe. (CM/Bur/Del(2007)13 and CM/Del/Dec(2007)1009/1.7).
59 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2001)26 – Approved CM/Del/Dec(2001)776/1.4
61 Cf. CM/Bur/Del(2004)25 - Approved CM/Del/Dec(2004)900/1.4
62 CM/Del/Concl(77)265 and CM(77)25
63 The Deputies decided in January 1994 (CM/Del/Dec(94)506/Item ADM3C) to hold DH meetings starting in 1995.
64 Cf. paragraph 27 of CM/Inf/DH(2010)45 final
65 Cf. 1100th (DH) meeting, item e.The practical modalities of these procedures are contained in the attached document (http://www.coe.int/t/cm/iGuide/III19_en.asp).
67 Resolution Res(92)6 and CM(2001)72, paragraph 12, as confirmed at the 108th Session of the CM (CM(2001)PV1, item 6)
68 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(92)472/44 and Appendix 19, item 3 "Other considerations"
69 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(75)243/XL, CM/Del/Dec(92)472/44, CM/Del/Dec(94)506/ADM3 decision 12, as amended by CM/Del/Dec(2012)1145/1.9
70 Cf. CM(2002)155 : Vademecum on working methods of the Deputies’ subsidiary bodies approved on 4 December 2002 (CM/Del/Dec(2002)820/1.4)
72 Observer States may participate in the Deputies’ subsidiary groups, unless the meetings were held in camera or other ad hoc arrangements had been decided (CM/Del/Dec(2006)971/1.6).
73 Summary of main fields of activity of each Rapporteur Group.
75 Procedure agreed at the Deputies’ 1134th meeting (15-16 February 2012).
79 Cf. CM(2011)96 final.
80 Summary of main fields of activity of each Rapporteur Group.
83 As from 2006, upon the implementation of the Guidelines for the reform and modernisation of the Committee's working methods.
87 Cf. GT-GR(2015)4
88 Cf. CM(2002)155 and CM(2011)96 final
95 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2002)780/1.4 and CM/Bur/Del(2002)3
102 117th Session (11 May 2007)
105 677bis meeting (27-28 July 1999, item 4.1)
106 Cf. Paragraph 2 of Resolution CM/Res(2010)26
107 Cf. Paragraph 3 of Resolution CM/Res(2010)26
108 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2010)1098/1.7 and CM/Del/Dec(2010)1101/1.7
109 Formerly GT-SUIVI.Interlaken.
110 The CL-CEDH has since been discontinued.
111 CM/Bur/Del(2010)25 final, CM/Del/Dec(2010)1098/1.5
112 The bodies concerned are: the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT); the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities; the Committee of Experts of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages; the European Committee of Social Rights (ECSR); the Administrative Tribunal; the Budget Committee, the Youth Card Board of Co-ordination; the Management Board of the Pension Reserve Fund; the Committee of Experts on Buildings (CAHB) and the Oversight Advisory Committee.
113 The functions concerned are: the External Auditor and the Independent Person sitting on the Management and Executive Boards of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights.
114 Cf. in particular, Recommendation Res(81)6
115 Within the meaning of Article 10.4 of the rules of Procedure for the Meetings of the Deputies
116 In accordance to Article 5 of the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman of Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
117 The intergovernmental committees' database is accessible online at the following address: http://intranet.coe.int/jahia/Jahia/lang/en/Accueil/DPFL/Programme_and_Budget_Department/Comites
118 http://intranet.coe.int/jahia/Jahia/lang/en/Accueil/DPFL/Programme_and_Budget_Department/Comites
119 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2007)1011/10.7
121 The Committee for Works of Art was established in 1992 (cf. CM/Del/Dec(92)482/35), replacing the informal Gifts Committee created by the CM in November 1975 (cf. CM/Del/Dec(75)250/XXXIII).
125 Cf. CM(2001)72 (Appendix, paragraph a)
126 Agreed in the Joint Committee on 6 December 1963
130 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(98)615, as amended by CM/AS(2003)Rec1567 final and CM(2011)96 final
132 i.e. the majority provided for in Article 20.d of the Statute
133 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(94)519bis/2.2 paragraph C (agreement of 4 November 1994)
136 CM(2011)96 final
137 At their 1015th meeting (16 January 2008), the Deputies adopted a simplified procedure for dealing with written questions from members of the Assembly (cf. CM(2008)4 final and CM/Del/Dec(2008)1015/1.6)
138 CM/Del/Dec(2002)797/11.1
140 Procedure agreed at the Deputies’ 1033rd meeting (3-4 September 2008)
141 i.e. the majority provided for in Article 20.d of the Statute
142 Article 20.a.iii and 21.b. of the Statute. The agreement of 4 November 1994 (CM/Del/Dec(94)519bis/2.2) has been applied to the replies to recommendations but it has never been applied to replies to Written Questions.
143 Until 2002 the distinction between written questions to the Committee of Ministers and written questions to the Chair-in-office was not made. All questions were addressed to the Committee. In 2002 the distinction was made.
144 CM/Del/Dec(2002)816/1.4
145 Cf. Statutory Resolution Res(51)30
146 Report on the follow-up action on the final report of the Committee of Wise Persons (CM(99)64), approved by the CM at its 104th Session in May 1999 supplementing Resolution Res(52)26 on consultation of the Assembly
148 Under Article 38 of the Statute
149 Cf. Resolution Res(53)38 on the budgetary system of the Assembly
150 Principle agreed at the Deputies’ 246th meeting in 1975
151 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(98)628/11.3, CM/AS(2003)Rec1567 final and CM(2009)142
152 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7
153 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7
154 CM/Del/Dec(99)676/2.4 app5
155 CM/Del/Dec(2006)971/1.6
156 CM/Del/Dec(2006)971/1.6 and CM/Bur/Del(2007)2
157 Cf. CM(2011)PVadd1 Item5 and SG/Inf(2011)13, item 8
165 Replacing the former ‘Quadripartite’ meetings
166 CM/Del/Dec(2011)1126/2.3
167 CM/Del/Dec(2008)1029/1.6
168 CM/Del/Dec(96)578 and CM/Del/Dec(96)579/2.1 app5
169 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7
170 Approved at a joint meeting between the CM of the Council of Europe and the Permanent Council of the OSCE in April 2005 (Cf. CM(2005)65, Appendix III)
171 Cf. Decision No. CM/865/01122004
174 CM/Del/Dec(98)643/2.4. In this context it is recalled that the GR-OSCE referred to in that decision was merged with the GR-EU, RAP-UN and RAP-OCDE to form the GR-EXT in 2005 (cf. CM(2005)181 rev).
175 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7 respectively
176 Cf. Exchange of letters of 15 December 1951
177 Since 2000 (every second year since 2004)
179 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7 respectively
180 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7 respectively
181 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24
182 Cf. Resolution CM/Res(2011)24 and Resolution CM/Res(2011)7 respectively
183 Cf. CM(99)64 - Approved at the 668th Deputies’ meeting (CM/Del/Dec(99)668/1.5)
184 Financial Regulations, Article 17
185 Financial Regulations, Article 3
186 Financial Regulations, Article 23
187 Financial Regulations, Article 24
188 Financial Regulations, Article 1
189 Financial Regulations, Article 25
190 CM/Del/Dec(98)622/11.1 appendix 7
191 Financial Regulations, Article25, paragraph 9
193 Financial Regulations, Articles 30 and 32
194 Financial Regulations, Article 66
195 Financial Regulations, Articles 69-72
196 Financial Regulations, Article 73. The Committee was renamed in April 2014 (cf. CM/Del/Dec(2014)1196/11.1).
197 Cf. Resolution Res(2006)1, as amended by Resolution CM/Res(2008)50, CM/Del/Dec(2011)1105/11.1abd and CM/Del/Dec(2012)1153/11.1 Part 3B
198 Financial Regulations, Articles 40-42
199 Financial Regulations, Article 21
200 Article 38b. The expenses of the Secretariat and all other common expenses shall be shared between all members in such proportions as shall be determined by the Committee on the basis of the population of members. The contributions of an associate member shall be determined by the Committee.
201 Financial Regulations, Article 10
202 Article 9: The Committee of Ministers may suspend the right of representation on the Committee and on the Parliamentary Assembly of a member which has failed to fulfil its financial obligation during such period as the obligation remains unfulfilled.
203 Decision taken at the 95th Session of the Committee of Ministers (10 November 1994).
204 Financial Regulations, Articles 4 and 11
205 CM/Del/Dec(2009)1050/11.1
206 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(89)431/42a, Appendix 7, amended by CM/Del/Dec(2005)951/11.1 and CM/Del/Dec(2006)978/11.10
207 Financial Regulations, Article 11
208 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2013)1185/11.5
209 Cf. CM(2011)96 final and CM(2000)159 rev
210 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2008)1042/1.6 et CM/Del/Dec(2014)1197/11.1
211 Cf. CM(2005)79 final and CM(2005)80 final
213 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(2010)1089/11.3, as amended by CM/Del/Dec(2013)1162/11.4
214 Article 37 of the Statute
217 North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Council of Europe, Western European Union (WEU), European Space Agency (ESA), European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and EUMETSAT
220 Cf. CM/Del/Dec(98)641/1.3 and CM/Del/Dec(2000)735/1.5a as amended by CM/Del/Dec(2004)883/1.4
222 CM/Bur/Del(2003)19
223 CM/Del/Dec(94)519bis/1.3
224 CM/Del/Dec(99)661/1.8, paragraph 2
225 CM/Del/Dec(2002)Chair790/1.6a
226 CM/Del/Dec(94)519bis/1.3
227 CM/Del/Dec(2007)1014/1.4
228 CM/Del/Dec(2000)735/1.5a, CM/Del/Dec(2002)790/1.6a
229 CM/Bur/Del(2001)24
230 CM/Del/Dec(2006)964/4.4 app4, (Rule 8 and 14: Access to information)
231 Pursuant to Article 46, paragraph 2 and Article 39, paragraph 4 of the Convention
232 CM/Del/Dec(2006)964/4.4 app4, (Rule 5)
233 CM/Del/Dec(2010)1100
234 Under rules 9 and 15 of the Rules for the supervision of execution judgments and of the terms of friendly settlements
235 Taking into account Rule 9 § 3 of the Rules of supervision
236 Cf. Resolution Res(2001)6