Reply to Recommendation | Doc. 11040 | 02 October 2006

Alleged secret detentions and unlawful inter-state transfers of detainees involving Council of Europe member states

Author(s): Committee of Ministers

Reply to Recommendation: Recommendation 1754 (2006)

1. The Committee of Ministers has noted with interest Parliamentary Assembly Recommendation 1754 (2006) on alleged secret detentions and unlawful inter-state transfers of detainees involving Council of Europe member states. It is presently examining a number of proposals made by the Secretary General for follow-up activities to his reports under Article 52 of the European Convention on Human Rights on the question of secret detention and transport of detainees suspected of terrorist acts, notably by or at the instigation of foreign agencies. [(1) See document SG/Inf(2006)01.] His proposals have been elaborated in the light, not only of his reports under Article 52, but also of Resolution 1507 (2006) and of Recommendation 1754 (2006) of the Parliamentary Assembly, as well as of the Venice Commission’s Opinion No. 363/2005.

2. The Committee of Ministers underlines the need to promote democratic values and respect of human rights in the fight against terrorism. [(2) See the reply to Parliamentary Assembly Recommendation 1687 (2004) on combating terrorism through culture (document CM/AS(2004)Rec1687 final).] It also stresses that the proposals made reach deeply into sensitive areas of national security, law and practice. It will therefore be giving them careful consideration and return to this issue at one of its forthcoming meetings.

3. The Committee of Ministers will inform the Assembly of the result of its discussions in due course.