Communication on the activities of the Committee of Ministers (January-April 1992)

4 May 1992

Doc. 6602

1403-27/4/92-2-E

COMMUNICATION ON THE ACTIVITIES

OF THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS

(January - April 1992)

STATUTORY REPORT

1st Part of the 44th Ordinary Session

of the Assembly

(May 1992)

I. Political Developments

II. European Convention on Human Rights and

European Social Charter

III. Implementation of the Intergovernmental Programme

of Activities

IV. Partial Agreements

V. Standing Conference of Local and Regional

Authorities of Europe (CLRAE)

VI. Conferences of Specialised Ministers

Strasbourg, 4 May 1992 Restricted

CM(92)96

[Doc. 6602]

COMMUNICATION ON THE ACTIVITIES

OF THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS

(January - April 1992)

STATUTORY REPORT

1st Part of the 44th Ordinary Session

of the Assembly

(4 - 8 May 1992)

I. Political Developments

II. European Convention on Human Rights and

European Social Charter

III. Implementation of the Intergovernmental Programme

of Activities

IV. Partial Agreements

V. Standing Conference of Local and Regional

Authorities of Europe (CLRAE)

VI. Conferences of Specialised Ministers

- i -

CONTENTS

Page

I. Political Developments 1

      1.       Relations with European non-member States        1

      2.       Programmes of co-operation with and assistance to

      countries of Central and Eastern Europe        5

      3.       Relations with the European Community        7

      4.       The Council of Europe and the CSCE        7

      5.       Other political questions        8

II. European Convention on Human Rights and

      European Social Charter        10

      1.       European Convention on Human Rights        10

      2.       European Social Charter        17

III. Implementation of the Intergovernmental Programme

of Activities 18

Field I Democracy, Freedoms and the Fundamental

Rights of Human Beings 18

      Field II       Media and Communication        21

      Field III       Social and Economic Affairs        23

      Field IV       Education, Culture, Heritage and Sport        26

      Field V       Youth        33

      Field VI       Health        35

      Field VII       Management of Space and the Natural World       38

      Field VIII Local Democracy        39

      Field IX       Legal Co-operation        41

- ii -

Page

IV. Partial Agreements 49

1. Partial agreement in the social and public

health field 49

2. Pompidou Group 49

      3.       Social Development Fund        50

      4.       European Pharmacopoeia        51

      5.       Partial Agreement instituting the European Support

      Fund for the co-production and distribution of

      creative cinematographic and audio-visual works

      "EURIMAGES"        51

      6.       European Centre for Global Interdependence

      and Solidarity        52

      7.       European Commission for Democracy through Law        54

      8.       European Youth Card        55

      9.       Open Partial Agreement on the Prevention of,

      Protection Against, and Organisation

      of Relief in Major Natural and Technological

      Disasters        55

V. Standing Conference of Local and Regional

Authorities of Europe (CLRAE) 57

VI. Conferences of Specialised Ministers 60

      A.       Conferences held from 15 January to

      1 May 1992        60

      B.       Forthcoming Conferences        62

VII. Action taken on texts adopted by the Assembly <*>

VIII. Texts adopted by the Committee of Ministers <*>

IX. Chart of signatures and ratifications of European

Treaties (covering the period between 17 January

and 30 April 1992) <*>

<*> See the Addendum to the present Report.

I. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS

1. Relations with European non-member States

a. Bulgaria

In view of the time-table which the Parliamentary Assembly has itself fixed for examination and adoption of its Opinion on Bulgaria's application for membership of the Council of Europe, and the high probability that the Opinion will be favourable (on 5 May 1992), Bulgaria will be in a position, already on 7 May, to deposit the instrument of accession to the Council of Europe (and sign the European Convention on Human Rights), and to participate in the 90th Session of the Committee of Ministers on the same day.

On 24 March, the Ministers' Deputies held an exchange of views in Strasbourg with Mr Valentin DOBREV, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs.

b. Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which have all applied for membership of the Council of Europe, have been invited to join the European Cultural Convention. Their representatives are expected to deposit the instruments of accession in Strasbourg on 7 May 1992.

On 11 February 1992, the Committee of Ministers authorised the Secretariat to continue preparation and implementation of programmes of co-operation and assistance with Lithuania, in accordance with the general lines laid down in the report of the meeting with a delegation of senior Lithuanian officials on 23-24 January 1992, and invited Lithuania to take part in the work of all the intergovernmental Committees in which it expresses an interest.

On 27 March, the Committee of Ministers further decided to invite Estonia and Latvia to participate as observers in all intergovernmental Committees in which these countries have an interest. At the same time the Committee of Ministers authorised the Secretary General to continue planning and implementation of co-operation activities with Estonia along the lines set out in the report of the meeting with a delegation of Estonian senior officials on 11 and 12 February 1992.

c. Romania

Romania has applied for membership of the Council of Europe and, as a signatory of the European Cultural Convention (since 19 December 1991), participates on an equal footing in the Council of Europe's activities in the field of culture, education, youth and sport, as well as in the planning and implementation of the co-operation and assistance programmes destined for the countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

d. Albania

On 23 March 1992, the Committee of Ministers adopted an interim reply to Assembly Recommendation 1179 (1992) on the exodus of Albanian nationals.

It also decided to communicate the recommendation to the Social Development Fund in order that it might be taken into account in the context of the Fund's activities.

Moreover, on 10 April 1992, the Committee of Ministers adopted a supplementary reply to Assembly Recommendation 1171(1991) on the situation of hospitals in Albania: priority needs of the paediatric institute of Tirana.

It also instructed the Secretary General to make contact with the Ministers for Health of the member States with a view to:

- identifying ways of ensuring co-ordination of the equipment aid proposed by the Assembly (Annex C of Doc. 6522) and of the sending of vaccines, in accordance with the list of needs in respect of vaccines and serums submitted by the Tirana Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology;

- informing them that the Council of Europe's special account "Emergency Aid to Albania" is also intended for the collection of payments towards the Paediatric Institute of Tirana.

It further instructed the European Health Committee (CDSP) to raise the awareness of the relevant authorities in member States with a view to promoting twinning operations between the departments of the Paediatric Institute of Tirana and the hospitals of member States.

e. Russian Federation

On 27 March 1992 the Committee of Ministers agreed that the Russian Federation is a Contracting Party to the seven Conventions of the Council of Europe to which the Soviet Union had acceded, including the European Cultural Convention, participating also in the Convention's organs (CDCC, etc.), the activities covered by the Convention and the funding of such activities.

At the same time it was agreed that the Russian Federation should be the beneficiary of the invitations previously issued to the Soviet Union to accede to (or sign) six further Council of Europe Conventions and Agreements (including invitations to participate in the respective convention organs as an observer, pending accession or ratification), and also that the Russian Federation should be a Party to the Open Partial Agreement for the Prevention of, Protection against and Organisation of Relief in Major Natural and Technological Disasters, and could take part in the European Commission for Democracy through Law (Venice Commission) as an associate member.

Mr A KOZYREV, Minister for Foreign Affairs, has been invited to an informal exchange of views with the Committee of Ministers on 7 May 1992 on the occasion of its 90th Session. The Secretariat will continue, notably through contact groups set up on both sides at senior official level with the co-operation and assistance programmes which had been developed with the Soviet Union since 1989.

f. Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine

The Committee of Ministers authorised, on 20 February, the Secretary General to establish contacts with Belarus and Ukraine (and also with Armenia and Azerbaijan, see below) and, on 27 March, with Moldova, at the level of high officials, with a view to examining the possibilities of co-operation and assistance programmes in accordance with the criteria and methods applicable to such programmes for Central and East European countries (under Vote IX of the Budget, in particular the "Demosthenes" programme and participation in "Greater Europe" projects of the Intergovernmental Programme of Activities), it being understood that the governments of these countries will be informed that these contacts do not carry any implication concerning possible accession to the Council of Europe.

On 10 April 1992, Mr SHUSHKEVICH, President of Belarus and Mr KRAVCHANKA, Minister for Foreign Affairs, exchanged views with the Ministers' Deputies in Strasbourg.

g. Armenia and Azerbaijan

On 11 March 1992 the Committee of Ministers adopted a Declaration on Nagorno-Karabakh1 expressing its deep concern about reports of indiscriminate killings and outrages, firmly condemning the violence and attacks directed against the civilian populations in the Nagorno-Karabakh area of the Azerbaijan Republic, and underlining both that no solution imposed by force can be accepted by the international community, as well as its support for all mediation efforts, notably those being undertaken in the framework of the CSCE.

The Committee of Ministers decided on 20 February to authorise the Secretary General to establish contacts with Armenia and Azerbaijan on the understanding that this would not carry any implications concerning possible accession to the Council of Europe.

On 27 March it also instructed the Secretariat to examine during the meeting with a delegation of Armenian senior officials, the conditions for a possible invitation to Armenia to join the Open Partial Agreement Co-operation Group for the Prevention of, Protection against and Organisation of Relief in Major Natural and Technological Disasters.

h. Relations with States situated on the former territory of Yugoslavia

i. Slovenia

On 26 March 1992, the Committee of Ministers adopted Resolution (92)42 inviting the Parliamentary Assembly to express its opinion on the wish, expressed in the Government of Slovenia's letter of 29 January 1992, to be invited to become a member of the Council of Europe.

The Committee also, on 10 April 1992, authorised the Secretary General to pursue the establishment and implementation of co-operation programmes with Slovenia (including participation in "Greater Europe" projects in the Intergovernmental Programme of Activities), and invited Slovenia to participate as an observer in all intergovernmental Committees in which that country expresses an interest.

ii. Croatia

On 11 February 1992, the Committee of Ministers authorised the Secretary General to establish official contacts with the Governments of the Republic of Croatia (and of Slovenia) with a view to the scheduling and implementation of co-operation and assistance programmes in accordance with the criteria and methods applicable to such programmes for Central and East European countries (under Vote IX of the Budget, in particular the "Demosthenes" programme and participation in the "Greater Europe" projects of the Intergovernmental Programme of Activities).

Moreover, on 29 April 1992, the Ministers' Deputies held an exchange of views with the Prime Minister of Croatia, Mr F GREGURIC.

iii. Displaced populations in the context of the crisis in Yugoslavia

On 23 March 1992, the Committee of Ministers adopted a reply to Assembly Recommendation 1176(1992) on the above subject. It also decided to address an appeal to the conflicting parties to respect, in all circumstances, the four Geneva Conventions of 1949 which provide protection to wounded military personnel, to prisoners of war and to civilian persons in time of war and agreed to forward Recommendation 1176 to the Social Development Fund, in order that it might be taken into account in the Fund's activities.

Where the general situation in Yugoslavia is concerned, the Committee of Ministers adopted on the same day a reply to Assembly Recommendation 1175(1992) and also instructed the Secretary General to bring this Recommendation to the attention of the governments of member States of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe (CSCE) which are not members of the Council of Europe, of the Commission and the Council of the European Communities and of the Secretary General of the United Nations.

Co-operation with Yugoslavia continues to be suspended, except on a case-by-case basis where special justification applies.

2. Programmes of co-operation with and assistance to countries of Central and Eastern Europe

General guidelines

The operational guidelines for the Council of Europe co-operation and assistance programmes with Central and Eastern European countries will remain in 1992 the same as in previous years. The Council of Europe reacts to specific requests submitted by the beneficiary countries in the areas corresponding to its fields of competence. Projects in the field of human rights, legal co-operation and the functioning of democratic institutions based on the principle of the rule of law are still given priority, in particular in the case of new partner countries, but activities are also increasingly organised in the fields of local government, media, social affairs, health, education, culture and youth.

The bilateral and multilateral projects in the above-mentioned fields constitute the hard core of the programmes, but they are complemented by information and documentation activities to increase as much as possible the knowledge of the general public in the beneficiary countries.

The budget of the programmes also provides the financial resources for the participation of representatives of non-member countries (upon decision by the Committee of Ministers) to expert meetings and conferences organised within the framework of the Intergovernmental Programme of Activities (including the "Greater Europe" projects).

Budgetary reference

In the light of the political events in Europe during and after the summer of 1991, the Committee of Ministers at its 89th Session on 26 November 1991 stated in its final communiqué that "the geographical enlargement and recent development of the Council of Europe, as well as the need to contribute usefully and effectively to the process of democratic reform under way in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, implied the provision of appropriate increased resources and in particular of those devoted to assistance and co-operation programmes...". Consequently, the Secretary General proposed that the credits for the co-operation programme in 1992 be increased to approximately 35 million French francs. In voting the Budget for 1992, the Committee of Ministers adopted the latter sum for Vote IX, while freezing some 11 million until the Committee has been able to study in detail the proposals for activities implemented in the framework of the programmes and receive the opinion of the Budget Committee.

The financial resources available for the co-operation programmes in 1992 include also voluntary contributions from several member countries for activities in specific fields (ie. legal co-operation, media, sport) or in certain countries (ie. Albania, and the Baltic States).

Geographical frame and enlargement perspectives

During the spring of 1992, the Council of Europe has been confronted with an increasing number of new requests for participation in co-operation and assistance programmes following political developments in the former Soviet Union as well as Yugoslavia. Thus, as of February 1992 the programmes initiated with the Soviet Union are pursued with the authorities of the Russian Federation. The Republics of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine have also expressed interest in co-operation. Preliminary contacts will take place during the spring. The modalities for the elaboration of a possible specific programme of co-operation for these countries are being examined.

The Republics of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have been beneficiaries of the co-operation programmes since September 1991, but the bilateral projects were developed only at the beginning of 1992 following the meetings with delegations of senior officials from these countries during the first three months of the year.

Due to the hostilities in Yugoslavia, all co-operation with the authorities of this country had been suspended by decision of the Committee of Ministers on 8 October 1991. By decision of the Committee of Ministers contacts and co-operation with the Republics of Slovenia and Croatia were, however, started in February 1992. A first information meeting was organised in Ljubljana (Slovenia) on 12 and 13 March 1992.

It is recalled that in addition to the above-mentioned countries beneficiaries to the co-operation programmes are the three member States - Hungary, Czechoslovakia and Poland - as well as Albania, Bulgaria and Romania.

The Plans for the development of law and of local government

During the first months of 1992, the Secretariat has continued the elaboration of these plans and negotiations regarding its financing. These two complementary Plans could be officially launched during the 90th Session of the Committee of Ministers on 7 May 1992 in order to become operational in the second half of the year.

3. Relations with the European Community

On 11 March 1992 the Ministers' Deputies held their annual exchange of views on co-operation between the Council of Europe and the European Community with Mr David Williamson, Secretary General of the Commission of the European Communities. This exchange of views mainly concentrated on the Community's work in 1992, in particular with regard to the implementation of the Maastricht Treaty and the development of relations with countries of Central and Eastern Europe, as well as on the practical co-operation with the Council of Europe, in particular with regard to the Commission's possible contribution to the financial implementation of the Council of Europe's plans for developing law and local democracy in countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

As to the latter, the Director of Political Affairs of the Council of Europe presented on 8 April 1992 the Council of Europe proposals to the meeting of Senior Officials of the Group of 24 on coordinated assistance to Central and Eastern European countries. The conclusions of this meeting noted that the establishment and strengthening of democratic institutions and an appropriate legal framework are conditions for the success of the reform process. The G-24 welcomed the initiative of the Council of Europe to assist the development of legal systems and local democracy in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

4. The Council of Europe and the CSCE

At the meeting of Ministers for Foreign Affairs of CSCE participating States held in Prague on 30-31 January 1992, the Ministers present directed the CSCE's Warsaw Office for democratic institutions and human rights to work closely with both the Council of Europe and the European Commission for Democracy through Law (Venice Commission).

Subsequently, the Ministers' Deputies agreed upon eight projects contained in the Intergovernmental Programme of Activities for 1992, concerned with the Human Dimension of the CSCE process, that could be open to non-member States of the Council of Europe participating in the CSCE.

The Council of Europe was invited to make a contribution at the opening plenary Session of the CSCE Helsinki follow-up meeting, being held in Helsinki from 24 March to 8 July 1992. At the plenary Session on 31 March, the Director of Political Affairs presented, inter alia, the eight projects mentioned above. Furthermore, the working groups at this meeting were permitted to invite representatives of international organisations to make contributions to their Sessions. On this basis, the Secretariat of the Council of Europe, on 15 April, made a contribution to the working group on the Human Dimension.

5. Other political questions

a. Relations with Countries of North America

The Chairman-in-Office of the Committee of Ministers visited Washington on 10 and 11 February 1992, accompanied by the Secretary General. They were received by President BUSH, and in the absence of Secretary of State Baker, by acting Secretary of State EAGLEBURGER and Under-Secretary of State KANTER, and other personalities.

The Council of Europe representatives considered that the principal aim of the visit was attained, namely to explain the Council of Europe and to stress the Council of Europe's role in the present phase of European construction: contribution to European stability and security in the broad senses.

The American interlocutors recognised the instrumental and operational role the Council of Europe can play in the pursuit of certain CSCE aims.

The working approach, it was agreed, needs to be based on complementarity and avoidance of setting up institutions which duplicate existing ones: if need be, arrangements for ensuring this can be agreed.

In the field of assistance to Central and Eastern Europe - where the aims pursued are the same and the methods used are similar - there is a desire to develop exchange of information and reciprocal participation and co-operation in selected programmes.

As regards the Council of Europe's intergovernmental programmes, there was confirmation of American interest in more involvement of American officials. however, the approach has to be selective, ad hoc and pragmatic, according to mutual interest and unconstrained by any rigid formal arrangement.

Meanwhile, preparations are well advanced for the Colloquy on "1992: Europe and North America, the dialogue of the new solidarities", to be organised by the Secretary General (Strasbourg, 19-20 June 1992), whose approximately 80 participants will include the President and members of the Parliamentary Assembly.

The following personalities from the United States have agreed to act as rapporteurs for the various themes (for which there will also be rapporteurs from Europe and/or Canada):

. Ambassador Richard SCHIFTER, former Assistant Secretary of State for human rights, on "Common values: a certain idea of democracy and human rights" (Theme I);

. Ambassador Robert BLACKWILL, John F Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, on "Interests at stake: conflicts and convergences between Europe and North America" (Theme II);

. Dr Robert HUNTER, Vice-President, Center for Strategic and International Studies, on "Security: the new dimensions" (Theme III);

. Ambassador James F DOBBINS, United States Representative to the European Communities, on "The role of the Council of Europe" (Theme IV).

At the close of the Colloquy, before the Secretary General draws the general conclusions, the proceedings will be summed up by John Edwin MROZ, President, Institute for East-West Security Studies, New York.

b. Institutional role of the Council of Europe

The Deputies Working Party continued its work on this subject, and met several times; moreover, on 21 April 1992, a delegation of the Ministers' Deputies Working Party held a joint meeting with the ad hoc Committee of the Assembly on the revision of the Statute.

II. EUROPEAN CONVENTION ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND EUROPEAN SOCIAL CHARTER

1. European Convention on Human Rights3

Malta recognised for a new period of 5 years as from 1st March 1992 the competence of the Commission (Article 25 of the Convention) and the jurisdiction of the Court (Article 46 of the Convention).

Denmark recognised for a new period of 5 years as from 5 April 1992 the competence of the Commission (Article 25 of the Convention) and the jurisdiction of the Court (Article 46 of the Convention).

On 18 March 1992 the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic ratified the European Convention on Human Rights and also Protocols Nos. 1, 4, 6 and 7. It also recognised for a period of 5 years the competence of the Commission (Article 25) and the jurisdiction of the Court (Article 46).

On 25 March 1992, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the United Kingdom signed with reservation as to ratification, acceptance or approval Protocol No. 10 to the European Convention on Human Rights. At the same date Norway signed Protocol No. 10 without reservation as to ratification, acceptance or approval.

On 9 April 1992, Sweden signed with reservation as to ratification Protocol No. 10 to the European Convention on Human Rights

* *

CYPRUS AGAINST TURKEY

The Committee of Ministers has reached a decision in the case of Cyprus against Turkey (Application No. 8007/77). In its Resolution DH (92) 12 of 2 April 1992 the Committee of Ministers, having regard to the Commission's report, decided to make it public and viewed this decision as completing its consideration of the present case.

Application of Article 54 of the European Convention on Human Rights

- THE FELDBRUGGE CASE

The case originated in an application against the Netherlands lodged with the European Commission of Human Rights on 16 February 1979 under Article 25 of the Convention, by Mrs Geziena Hendrika Maria Feldbrugge, a Dutch national, who complained that she had not had a fair hearing in proceedings she brought before an appeals board in order to continue receiving a health insurance allowance.

In its judgment of 29 May 1986 the Court inter alia held, by ten votes to seven, that Article 6, paragraph 1, of the Convention, was applicable to the circumstances of the present case and had been violated.

In its judgment of 27 July 1987 the Court inter alia held unanimously that the Netherlands were to pay to the applicant 10 000 Dutch guilders for non-pecuniary damage and to reimburse her for consultation expenses in the amount of 1 502 guilders.

The Government of the Netherlands subsequently gave the Committee of Ministers the following information about the measures taken in consequence of the Court's judgments.

"The Appeals Act 1955 (Beroepswet) was amended by an Act dated 11 September 1991 which entered into force on 1 October 1991.

For disputes concerning fitness or unfitness for work, section 142, paragraph 1, of the 1955 Act, mentioned in paragraph 19 of the Court's judgment, provided that an appeal against the decision of the President of the Appeals Board (Raad van Beroep) lay with the full Appeals board, but solely on four grounds specifically listed. If the appeal (verzet) brought by one of the parties was not based on one or the other of these grounds, it was declared inadmissible.

Section 1, paragraph y, of the 1991 Act amending section 142 of the 1955 Act does no longer mention these four conditions of admissibility of the appeal. Under section 142, paragraph 2, as amended, the parties will have henceforth at their request, the opportunity of consulting the case file before expiry of the 30 days' time limit set for lodging the appeal. Furthermore, section 142, paragraph 5, as amended, provides that the Appeals Board may declare the appeal inadmissible but that it must give the applicant the opportunity to be heard at a public hearing.

The sums awarded by the Court to the applicant were paid on 14 August 1987.".

In its Resolution DH (92) 8 of 20 February 1992, the Committee of Ministers declared, after having taken note of the information supplied by the Government of the Netherlands, that it had exercised its functions under Article 54 of the Convention in this case.

- THE HELMERS CASE

The case originated in an application against Sweden lodged with the European Commission of Human Rights on 6 February 1985, under Article 25 of the Convention, by Mr Reinhard Helmers, a German national, who complained inter alia of a Court of Appeal's refusal to grant him his request for an oral hearing in a criminal procedure he had instituted for defamation.

In its judgment of 29 October 1991 the Court inter alia held, by eleven votes to nine, that there had been a violation of Article 6, paragraph 1, of the Convention as a result of the Court of Appeal's refusal to grant the applicant's request for an oral hearing and, unanimously, that Sweden was to pay to the applicant within three months, 25 000 Swedish crowns in respect of non-pecuniary damage.

In its Resolution DH (92) 9 of 20 February 1992, the Committee of Ministers, after having satisfied itself that the Government of Sweden has paid to the applicant on 26 November 1991 the sum provided for in the judgment of 29 October 1991, declared that it has exercised its functions under Article 54 of the Convention.

- THE MOREIRA DE AZEVEDO CASE

The case originated in an application against Portugal lodged with the European Commission of Human Rights on 16 November 1984 under Article 25 of the Convention, by Mr Manuel Moreira de Azevedo, a Portuguese national, who complained of the length of criminal proceedings instituted by the Public Prosecutor against a person who had assaulted him.

In its judgment of 23 October 1990 the Court inter alia held unanimously that Article 6, paragraph 1, of the Convention applied to the present case and that it had been violated.

In its judgment of 28 August 1991 the Court inter alia unanimously held that Portugal was to pay to the applicant within the next three months 4 000 000 escudos in respect of damage and 946 800 escudos for costs and expenses less 20 153,90 French francs.

The Government of Portugal subsequently gave the Committee of Ministers the following information about the measures taken in consequence of the Court's judgment.

"Sections 108 and 109 of the new Code of criminal procedure that came into force on 1 January 1988, instituted an autonomous remedy to expedite the procedure.

Under section 108, when the time limits set by the law for the duration of each phase of the proceedings have expired, the public prosecutor, the accused, the assistente or the parties claiming damages may request expedition. The decision on this request is to be taken either by the Republic's General Prosecutor, if the case is under the direction of the Public Prosecutor or by the Superior Council of the Judiciary if the case was brought before a Court or a judge. The judges that participated in any way whatsoever in the case cannot intervene in the deliberations.

Section 109 of the new Code of criminal procedure determines the procedure to be followed when dealing with a request for expedition. In particular, paragraph 5 of section 109 states the decision taken may be either to declare the request inadmissible as being ill-founded or because the delays found were justified; or to request further information, which must be provided within a maximum of 5 days, or to request that an enquiry be conducted, within a period that cannot exceed 15 days; or to suggest or determine the disciplinary sanctions, management, organisational or rationalisation measures called for by the situation.

According to paragraph 6 of section 109 the decision is immediately communicated to the Court or the entity in charge of the case as well as to the authorities who have disciplinary jurisdiction over the persons responsible for the delays found.

Furthermore, a Ministerial Instrument (Portaria) No. 848/83 dated 23 August 1983 has appointed a 3rd judge to the district of Vila Nova de Famalicao. A new first instance Court (Tribunal de Circolo), including the Vila Nova de Famalicao district, was set up in Santo Tirso and started functioning on 21 August 1990. Lastly, the administration staff of the Famalicao District was raised from 38 to 42 civil servants by Ministerial Instrument (Portaria) No. 537/88 of 10 August 1988.

The sums awarded by the Court to the applicant were paid on 15 October 1991.".

In its Resolution DH (92) 10 of 20 February 1992, the Committee of Ministers declared, after having taken note of the information supplied by the Government of Portugal, that it had exercised its functions under Article 54 of the Convention in this case.

- THE MOUSTAQUIM CASE

The case originated in an application against Belgium lodged with the European Commission of Human Rights on 13 May 1986 under Article 25 of the Convention by Mr Abderrahman Moustaquim, a Moroccan national, who complained inter alia of having been expelled from Belgium although he had arrived there at a very young age and lived there with all his family.

In its judgment of 18 February 1991 the Court inter alia

held, by seven votes to two, that there had been a breach of Article 8 of the Convention and that the respondent State was to pay to the applicant 440 000 Belgian francs less 10 730 French francs for non-pecuniary damage and for costs and expenses.

The Government of Belgium subsequently gave the Committee of Ministers the following information about the measures taken in consequence of the Court's judgment.

"The Court's judgment of 18 February 1991 was widely circulated among the competent Belgian administrative and judicial authorities in order to enable them to take into account the Court's case-law in any similar cases.

The sum awarded to the applicant by the Court was paid on 9 April 1991.".

In its Resolution DH (92) 14 of 2 April 1992, the Committee of Ministers declared, after having taken note of the above-mentioned information, that it had exercised its functions under Article 54 of the Convention.

Application of Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights

- AZZI AGAINST ITALY

The Committee of Ministers, acting under Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights has reached a decision in the case of Azzi against Italy - (Application No. 11250/84 - excessive length of civil proceedings instituted against the town of Turin).

In its Resolution DH (92) 2 of 20 February 1992 the Committee of Ministers, after having referred to the content of the previous Resolution it had adopted in this case, namely Resolution DH (91) 12 of 6 June 1991, recalled that it had decided on 19 December 1991 to delete Rule 5 of the Rules adopted by the Committee of Ministers for the application of Article 32 of the Convention according to which advice, suggestions or recommendations addressed by the Committee of Ministers to a State after a finding of a violation are not binding. Consequently the Committee of Ministers:

- held, in accordance with Article 32, paragraph 2, of the Convention, that the Government of Italy was to pay to the applicant before 20 May 1992 the sum of 17 760 000 Italian lire in respect of just satisfaction;

- invited the Government of Italy to inform it of the measures taken in consequence of the decision of the Committee of Ministers, having regard to its obligation under Article 32, paragraph 4, of the Convention to abide by it;

- decided to resume consideration of the present case at the next meeting following expiry of the time limit set above.

- LO GIACCO AGAINST ITALY

The Committee of Ministers, acting under Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights has reached a decision in the case of Lo Giacco against Italy (Application No. 10659/83 - excessive length of civil proceedings in order to obtain a disability pension).

In its Resolution DH (92) 3 of 20 February 1992 the Committee of Ministers, after having referred to the content of the previous Resolution it had adopted in this case, namely Resolution DH (91) 13 of 6 June 1991, recalled that it had decided on 19 December 1991 to delete Rule 5 of the Rules adopted by the Committee of Ministers for the application of Article 32 of the Convention according to which advice, suggestions or recommendations addressed by the Committee of Ministers to a State after a finding of a violation are not binding. Consequently the Committee of Ministers:

- held, in accordance with Article 32, paragraph 2, of the Convention, that the Government of Italy was to pay to the applicant before 20 May 1992 the sum of 3 million Italian lire in respect of just satisfaction;

- decided to resume consideration of the present case at the next meeting following expiry of the time limit set above.

- SAVOLDI AGAINST ITALY

The Committee of Ministers, acting under Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights has reached a decision in the case of Savoldi against Italy (Application No. 10253/83 - length of criminal proceedings).

In its Resolution DH (92) 4 of 20 February 1992 the Committee of Ministers, after having referred to the content of the two previous Resolutions it had adopted in this case, namely Resolution DH (90) 11 of 14 May 1990 and Resolution DH (91) 21 of 27 September 1991, recalled that it had decided on 19 December 1991 to delete Rule 5 of the Rules adopted by the Committee of Ministers for the application of Article 32 of the Convention according to which advice, suggestions or recommendations addressed by the Committee of Ministers to a State after a finding of a violation are not binding. Consequently the Committee of Ministers:

- held, in accordance with Article 32, paragraph 2, of the Convention, that the Government of Italy was to pay to the applicant before 20 May 1992 the sum of 125 million Italian lire in respect of just satisfaction;

- decided to resume consideration of the present case at the next meeting following expiry of the time limit set above.

- VAN EESBEECK AGAINST ITALY

The Committee of Ministers, acting under Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights has reached a decision in the case of Van Eesbeeck against Italy (Application No. 11541/85 - excessive length of civil proceedings).

In its Resolution DH (92) 5 of 20 February 1992 the Committee of Ministers, after having referred to the content of the previous Resolution it had adopted in this case, namely Resolution DH (91) 22 of 27 September 1991, recalled that it had decided on 19 December 1991 to delete Rule 5 of the Rules adopted by the Committee of Ministers for the application of Article 32 of the Convention according to which advice, suggestions or recommendations addressed by the Committee of Ministers to a State after a finding of a violation are not binding. Consequently the Committee of Ministers:

- held, in accordance with Article 32, paragraph 2, of the Convention, that the Government of Italy was to pay to the applicant before 20 May 1992 the sum of ten million Italian lire in respect of just satisfaction;

- decided to resume consideration of the present case at the next meeting following expiry of the time limit set above.

- SALLUSTIO AGAINST ITALY

The Committee of Ministers, acting under Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights has reached a decision in the case of Sallustio against Italy (Application No. 11181/84 - excessive length of criminal proceedings).

In its Resolution DH (92) 6 of 20 February 1992 the Committee of Ministers, after having referred to the content of the two previous Resolutions it had adopted in this case, namely Resolution DH (89) 1 of 18 January 1989 and Resolution DH (91) 23 of 27 September 1991, recalled that it had decided on 19 December 1991 to delete Rule 5 of the Rules adopted by the Committee of Ministers for the application of Article 32 of the Convention according to which advice, suggestions or recommendations addressed by the Committee of Ministers to a State after a finding of a violation are not binding. Consequently the Committee of Ministers:

- held, in accordance with Article 32, paragraph 2, of the Convention, that the Government of Italy was to pay to the applicant before 20 May 1992 the sum of 12 million Italian lire in respect of just satisfaction;

- decided to resume consideration of the present case at the next meeting following expiry of the time limit set above.

- MINNITI AGAINST ITALY

The Committee of Ministers, acting under Article 32 of the European Convention on Human Rights has reached a decision in the case of Minniti against Italy (Application No. 9630/81 - excessive length of civil proceedings).

In its Resolution DH (92) 7 of 20 February 1992 the Committee of Ministers, after having referred to the content of the two previous Resolutions it had adopted in this case, namely Resolution DH (89) 7 of 2 March 1989 and Resolution DH (91) 24 of 27 September 1991, recalled that it had decided on 19 December 1991 to delete Rule 5 of the Rules adopted by the Committee of Ministers for the application of Article 32 of the Convention according to which advice, suggestions or recommendations addressed by the Committee of Ministers to a State after a finding of a violation are not binding. Consequently the Committee of Ministers:

- decided to resume consideration of the present case at the next meeting following expiry of the time limit set above.

- KALENTZIS AGAINST GREECE

In his application to the European Commission of Human Rights introduced on 14 July 1987 Mr Aristotelis Kalentzis complained inter alia of the delay as regards transmission by the prison authorities of a request for conditional release he had sent to the national courts.

The Commission adopted its report in this case on 10 September 1991 expressing unanimously the opinion that there had been no violation of Article 8 of the Convention.

In its Resolution DH (92) 13 of 2 April 1992, the Committee of Ministers, agreeing with the Commission's opinion, decided that there had been no violation of Article 8 of the Convention.

2. European Social Charter

At their 108th (17-21 February 1992) and 109th (16-20 March 1992) sessions, the Committee of Independent Experts of the European Social Charter continued the examination of the national reports submitted by the second group of States4 for the twelfth supervision cycle.

The Governmental Committee of the European Social Charter met from 23 to 27 March 1992 and from 27 to 30 April 1992. It continued the examination of the national reports submitted by the first group of States5 under the twelfth supervision cycle and the Conclusions XII-1 of the Committee of Independent Experts.

At its 4th meeting (3-6 February 1992), the Committee on the European Social Charter (CHARTE-REL) examined proposals concerning the periodicity for submitting reports.

It also considered a draft Additional Protocol providing for a system of collective complaints and for this purpose instructed a working party to present the different possible solutions. This working party met on 30 and 31 March 1992.

Furthermore, Cyprus accepted four additional provisions of the European Social Charter (Articles 2 paragraph 1; 7 paragraph 1 and 3 and 8 paragraph 1).

Portugal (on 24 February 1992) and Finland (on 16 March 1992) signed the Protocol amending the Social Charter; Sweden ratified it on 18 March 19926.

III. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES

FIELD I

DEMOCRACY, FREEDOMS AND THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS OF HUMAN BEINGS

"European solidarity at the service of the individual"

The Ad Hoc Committee of Experts to exchange views on standard setting activities of the CSCE in the field of human rights met on

18 and 19 February 1992.

The Committee was given the following terms of reference:

"To hold an exchange of views on standards set and machinery developed by the Council of Europe in the human rights field in comparison with corresponding standards and machinery within the CSCE."

The Committee of Ministers decided, on 12 February 1992, to extend its composition and invite all the countries participating in the CSCE to take part "in the capacity in which they take part in meetings of the CSCE."

The Commission of the European Communities was also represented at the meeting; the CSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights participated as an observer.

Project I.1: Human rights and genuine democracy

The Project Group "Human Rights and Genuine Democracy" (CAHDD) held a meeting from 24 to 26 February 1992. The CAHDD had been instructed by the Committee of Ministers to draw up a research and priority action plan for the project "Human Rights and Genuine Democracy".

Various steering committees were represented at the meeting as well as the Parliamentary Assembly and the European Commission for Democracy through Law.

The CAHDD held an exchange of views on the plan which will be finalised at its forthcoming meeting to be held from 29 June to 1 July 1992.

Project I.3: Improving procedures for safeguarding human rights

At their 470th Meeting (10-13 February 1992) the Ministers' Deputies underlined the great importance they attribute to the reform of the control mechanisms of the European Convention on Human Rights at present under consideration by the Steering Committee for Human Rights (CDDH). The CDDH pursued its work on this question on 1 April 1992 during an extraordinary meeting (1-3 April 1991), at which it decided to officially transmit to the Commission and the Court information about proposals to reform the control system of the Convention, with the request that the Commission and the Court forward their opinions on this subject to the CDDH.

The Committee of experts for the improvement of procedures for the protection of human rights (DH-PR) held its 32nd meeting from

16 to 20 March 1992.

The Committee's meeting was almost entirely devoted to the consideration of possible ways of increasing the efficiency of the control machinery of the European Convention on Human Rights; in this connection, the Committee invited the Secretary of the Commission and Registrar of the Court to an exchange of views on this and related subjects. It also adopted, upon the request of the CDDH, a report on the advantages and disadvantages of proposals made by the Dutch and Swedish authorities to modify the Convention's judicial control mechanism. Finally, the Committee continued its work on the revision and consolidation of the Committee of Ministers' Rules for the application of Articles 32 and 54 of the Convention.

Project I.4: "Equality between women and men"

At its first meeting which it held in its new capacity as a Steering Committee, the Steering Committee for Equality between Women and Men (CDEG), the successor of the European Committee for Equality between Women and Men (CEEG), which had been an ad hoc committee, formulated the Opinion requested of it on the improvement of the European Social Charter. The proposals which it made, which mainly concern the substantive content of the Charter, are motivated by the need to take account of the current specificities of the problem of equality in Council of Europe member States.

Among the decisions which it took regarding the implementation of the Intergovernmental Programme of Activities for 1992, the CDEG adopted the terms of reference of a Group of Specialists on action against the traffic in women and forced prostitution (EG-S-TP), thus implementing the proposal made by the seminar on the subject held in Strasbourg from 25 to 27 September 1991; the Group will mainly be responsible for identifying and considering in greater depth those aspects of the problem which should be pursued by the CDEG.

It also decided to enlist the aid of a consultant to carry out a feasibility study on the creation of a European Observatory on Equality between Women and Men.

Continuing its consideration of the preparation of a European public campaign on equality between women and men planned for 1995, the CDEG noted that the campaign, which should be essentially geared to informing public opinion and raising awareness of the significance of equality between women and men for democracy, might be the contribution of the Council of Europe to the UN's 4th World Conference on Women (1995).

It asked a consultant to supply it with a detailed outline of the campaign for the purposes of the decision to be taken by the Committee of Ministers on the principle of such a campaign.

Lastly, the CDEG held an exchange of views on the next session of the UN Commission on the status of women (Vienna, 11-20 March 1992), which will discuss, inter alia, the preparation of the 4th World Conference on Women planned for 1995.

Project I.5: Legal and political aspects of the protection of

minorities

The CDDH held an extraordinary meeting on 28 and 29 January 1992 with a view to the execution of the ad hoc terms of reference assigned to it by the Committee of Ministers on the protection of national minorities. The CDDH decided on that occasion to set up a working party instructed to consider the possible creation of a good offices/conciliation machinery as proposed by Assembly Recommendation 1177 (1992), the possible standard setting action and confidence building measures. The Working Party met on 13 and 14 February and from 11 to 13 March 1992.

Aware of the urgency of the problems of national minorities, the CDDH adopted a final activity report on the protection of national minorities report for the attention of the Committee of Ministers, in the light of its Working Party's proposals, in time for the 90th session of the Committee of Ministers (7 May 1992), namely at a second extraordinary meeting on 2 and 3 April 1992. At this meeting, the CDDH also approved the text of a draft Recommendation on the implementation of rights of persons belonging to national minorities, which will be submitted to the Committee of Ministers shortly.

CONVENTIONAL ACTIVITIES

European Convention for the prevention of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment7

Since January 1992, the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) has carried out visits to the following countries: Italy, Portugal, and San Marino.

As regards the CPT's membership, on 26 March 1992, the Committee of Ministers elected Mr Jón BJARMAN as member of the Committee in respect of Iceland.

The 2nd General Report on the CPT's activities, covering the period 1 January to 31 December 1991, was submitted to the Committee of Ministers in April 1992. It is also noteworthy that the report prepared by the CPT following its visit to Sweden in 1991 was published in March 1992, with the agreement of the Swedish Government.

FIELD II

MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION

"Broadening and guaranteeing the scope

of freedom of expression and information"

The Steering Committee on Mass Media (CDMM) held its 30th meeting from 18-21 February 1992. This meeting provided the CDMM with the opportunity to reflect on the follow-up to be given to the decisions taken by the Ministers' Deputies on the conclusions adopted at the 3rd European Ministerial Conference on Mass Media Policy (Cyprus, 9-10 October 1991). On the basis of these decisions, the Steering Committee laid the basis for the work of its various subordinate bodies in the context of Field II of the 1992 Intergovernmental Programme of Activities. It should be noted that the content of Field II had been elaborated so as to anticipate the future tasks which would devolve on the CDMM and its subordinate bodies following the Ministerial Conference. The 30th meeting of the CDMM allowed the latter to prioritise a certain number of activities (e.g. media concentrations, the protection of neighbouring rights, the work of the Project Group (MM-EC) on the "Equality of Opportunity in the building of a European Audio-visual area") as well as to provide orientations for future activities in other areas dealing with aspects of media law and policy (e.g. exclusivity rights; sponsorship and new forms of commercial promotion; legal protection of television services). In addition, on the basis of the conclusions adopted at the Ministerial Conference, the CDMM launched initiatives designed to prepare the ground for the possible future work in areas such as the sound broadcasting sector.

Project II.1: Knowledge and analysis of national policies and

international developments in the media field

At its 30th meeting (18-21 February 1992), the CDMM approved draft terms of reference for the Co-ordinators' Committee of the MEDIALEX data base, which were adopted by the Ministers' Deputies at their 474th meeting (April 1992).

The national correspondents, who make up the Co-ordinators' Committee, are presently engaged in collecting and collating national laws, regulations, etc. on the areas covered by the European Convention on Transfrontier Television, for ultimate storage in the MEDIALEX data base. The next meeting of the Co-ordinators' Committee will take place from 22-23 September 1992.

Project II.2: Equality of opportunity in the building of a European

audio-visual area

Implementation of this project falls to the Project Group (MM-EC) which brings together representatives of the member States as well as observers from Central and East European countries. It is thus a Pan-European forum designed to work out concrete innovatory measures of a legal, technical, financial and fiscal nature capable of stimulating the production, distribution and marketing of European audio-visual works. The work of the Project Group is characterised by the input made by interested professional bodies to the various activities. The Project Group has been anxious to stress the importance of organising contact meetings between governmental experts and representatives of the professional circles. With this in mind, a first such contact meeting was held from 26-27 March 1992. This contact meeting allowed governmental experts and a range of professional bodies to reflect on concrete ways of improving the distribution of audio-visual works produced by television companies of "smaller" European countries and regions, including those of Central and East European countries, on the markets of the "larger" European countries. Following an analysis of the various problems which can hinder the distribution of audio-visual works (for example legal and administrative problems, financial and fiscal problems, technical problems, etc.) the contact meeting reflected on a number of ways of improving distribution as well as the concrete modalities of implementing them. The results of the contact meeting were communicated to the 2nd meeting of the MM-EC (28-30 April 1992).

Project II.3: The European development of communication

The Working Party on the Protection of Neighbouring Rights (JU-GT-NR) held its 3rd meeting from 6-7 February 1992. This is an area which has been prioritised by the CDMM, complementing as it does the content of the draft European Convention relating to questions on copyright law and neighbouring rights in the framework of transfrontier broadcasting by satellite. It is expected that the work will be intensified in the course of 1992. At its 3rd meeting, the Working Party continued with its analysis of various priority issues which could be included in a possible European Agreement on the protection of neighbouring rights. The reflections of the Working Party in the course of the meeting were primarily focused on possible ways of improving on the protection afforded to performers under Article 7.a of the Rome Convention (1961). The Working Party continued its analysis at its 4th meeting, held on 31 March to 1 April 1992.

A new Committee of Experts on Media Concentrations and Pluralism (MM-CM) held its 1st meeting from 4-6 March 1992. Its terms of reference have been greatly influenced by the conclusions adopted at the 3rd European Ministerial Conference. The CDMM, at its 30th meeting, regarded the area of media concentrations and pluralism as a priority field. The Steering Committee provided orientations to the MM-CM on its future work schedule. Among its tasks, the MM-CM is expected to reflect on the appropriateness of creating a multilateral concentration mechanism on media concentrations, an element highlighted at the Ministerial Conference. The 1st meeting of the MM-CM allowed the latter, in light of the orientations provided by the CDMM, to define the modalities for implementing its terms of reference, paying particular regard to the possible form to be given to the aforementioned mechanism. The MM-CM will continue its work at its 2nd meeting scheduled for 8-10 September 1992. In the meantime, it has launched a series of initiatives designed to ensure the continuity and progress of its work in the interim period.

CONVENTIONAL ACTIVITIES

The European Convention on Transfrontier Television (ETS 132) received its sixth ratification on 12 February 1992 with the deposit by Italy of its instrument of ratification. The Convention requires one additional ratification before it can enter into force in respect of the Contracting Parties.

FIELD III

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC AFFAIRS

"Towards a European social area"

Committee of Ministers

The Committee of Ministers adopted on 10 February 1992, Recommendation No. R (92) 4 on the co-ordination of employment, social and educational services for the integration and reintegration into employment of persons with difficulties8.

Project III.1: The future of the population in Europe

The Select Committee of Experts entrusted with this project is carrying out a study on alternative scenarios regarding the evolution of partnership and fertility, mortality and migration in Europe. A preliminary version of the report will be available in June 1992.

1993 European Population Conference

This Conference will cover the following themes:

- International migration

- Fertility and the family

- Health and mortality

- Population growth and structure, selected consequences

- International co-operation in the field of population: perspectives on global population change.

The preparatory work is being continued.

Project III.2: Migration, demography and employment

The Joint Committee of experts (CDPO-CDMG) entrusted with this project has defined the scope of its study to cover the following areas:

a. the situation in emigration regions

b. demographic and socio-economic aspects of migration flows

c. migration policies of destination countries.

Specific studies on each theme have been commissioned from specialists. The Committee intends to submit a preliminary version of the study to the 1993 Conference Organising Committee in June 1992.

Project III.3: The integration of immigrants: towards equal

opportunities

Work started on this new project at the first meeting of the Group of Specialists on equality of opportunity for immigrants (MG-S-EO). The Group has proposed to the CDMG a plan of work for the four-year period of the project and made arrangements for the work to be done in 1992: a meeting of persons responsible for training the police for work in a multi-ethnic context, and a meeting of organisers of local community relations projects designed to promote the integration of immigrants into the labour market.

Project III.5: Human dignity and social exclusion

A consultation meeting was held on 4 March 1992 to identify the follow-up to the Colloquy "Towards greater social justice in Europe: the challenge of marginalisation and poverty" (Strasbourg, 3-5 December 1991) that should be taken into account in any proposals that the Steering Committee on Social Policy (CDPS) might wish to make to the Committee of Ministers in relation to the implementation of project III.5 "Human dignity and social exclusion".

Project III.7: An integrated strategy to combat unemployment

Situation and legal position of young people between school and employment (Project III.7, 1991)

The Steering Committee for Employment and Labour (CDEM) adopted, at its 11th meeting (1-3 April 1992) a draft Recommendation on measures to be taken to facilitate young people's access to employment and improve the conditions for their social and vocational integration.

It also adopted a report on "The situation of young people between school and employment in certain member States of the Council of Europe" as well as a collection of fact sheets on national experiences in the area of community work schemes.

Opinion on the European Social Charter

The CDEM adopted an opinion on the revision of the substantive provisions of the Charter.

Project III.8: Childhood policies

The Bureau of the Steering Committee on Social Policy selected the 12 experts to represent the CDPS on the Project Co-ordinating Committee on Childhood Policies which will hold its first meeting on 29-30 June.

SERVICE ACTIVITIES

1. Demographic studies

The 1992 Report on Recent Demographic Developments in Europe is currently being prepared. The scope of the 1992 edition of this document has been expanded to cover all member States of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. It will be submitted to the 1993 European Population Conference as a reference document.

An analysis of the demographic situation in some Central and East European States, and a specific study on Hungary, are being carried out.

2. Co-ordinated research

The Study Group of the 1992/1993 Co-ordinated social research programme in the social field on "The situation of street children" met on 16-18 March 1992 and drew up its questionnaire.

The title of the study subject for the Co-ordinated Research Programme in the Social Field 1993/1994 was chosen to be "Interaction between the different actors providing family services in the public and private sectors, including families themselves". This subject is intended to mark the International Year of the Family (1994).

CONVENTIONAL ACTIVITIES

European Convention on the Legal Status of Migrant Workers

The Consultative Committee of the Convention is drawing up at present a draft Protocol intended to include in the scope of the Convention temporary migrant workers.

FIELD IV

EDUCATION, CULTURE, HERITAGE AND SPORT

"Europe's cultural identity and cultural diversity"

1. EDUCATION

The Education Committee of the Council for Cultural Co-operation (CDCC) met in Strasbourg on 17-19 March 1992.

The Committee monitored its current programme of activities (Projects on modern languages, a secondary education for Europe, adult education, as well as service activities) and planned and budgeted for its future programme.

The Committee reviewed the organisation and role of future Sessions of the Standing Conference of European Ministers of Education in general and prepared for the 18th Session (Madrid, 1993) in particular. This will be on the theme "Building the new Europe: Democratic values, education and mobility".

The Committee held a wide-ranging debate on the recently published Academia Europaea study "Schooling in Modern European Society".

The Committee reviewed co-operation with other Council of Europe bodies and other organisations, and held an exchange of views with representatives of the Organising Bureau of European School Student Unions (OBESSU).

Project IV.11: Language learning for European citizenship

The programme of international workshops continued with the holding of three planning meetings: one in Strasbourg for the preparation of Workshop 9A ("The use of new technologies in the learning and teaching of modern languages in vocationally oriented education" - Norway); a second one in Madrid for Workshop 10 ("Learning and teaching Spanish as a foreign language in secondary and adult education" - Spain) and the third in Dublin for the preparation of Workshop 11 ("Foreign languages for work and trade in upper secondary, vocational and adult education" - Ireland).

As regards the follow-up to the Rüschlikon Symposium (10-16 November 1991) on "Transparency and coherence in language learning in Europe: objectives, evaluation, certification", a first meeting was convened to define the working methods for the development of a common framework, and to plan future action in this field.

The work of the Modern Languages programme was also presented at Expolangues in Paris (11-16 February 1992) - this event is an opportunity to assess the interest shown by specialists and the general public in our activities - and in Prague, at a panel organised within the framework of Expolingua and attended by 120 language teachers.

Project IV.12: A secondary education for Europe

Symposium on "The New Europe in Geography Teaching"

(Strasbourg, 25-27 February 1992)

This Symposium was organised in co-operation with the Dutch Information Centre for Geography (Utrecht, Netherlands), the Georg-Eckert Institute for Research on Textbooks (Braunschweig, Germany) and the Dutch Ministry of Education. It brought together 30 experts from the signatory States to the European Cultural Convention, 1 expert from Albania, from Latvia, from Lithuania and from Estonia, 1 observer of the FIPESO and 19 experts and speakers.

The aims and expected results of the Symposium were to:

- study the consequences of recent developments in Europe on geography teaching;

- make proposals for the production of teaching aids and educational resources for teachers.

During the Symposium, some proposals and recommendations were made, in particular:

- the creation of a network of information centres on geography;

- arrangements for places to hold short courses and meetings for geography teachers to be made available;

- the preparation of a booklet containing addresses of organisations for geography teaching;

- the elaboration of a short report containing information on Eastern and Central Europe for teachers and authors of school textbooks.

Project IV.13: Adult Education and Social Change

The final phase of this project, which is devoted to the dissemination and discussion of the findings and conclusions of the operational phase (1989-1991), is continuing with the organisation in member States of dissemination seminars on the following themes:

- "Adult education and social change in the light of new developments in Europe", Stuttgart, Germany, 11-13 February 1992;

- "Adult education: factor of change", Vale de Lobos/Sintra, Portugal, 25 - 27 March 1992;

- "From permanent education to adult education as a human right" Copenhagen, Denmark, 22-24 April 1992.

Three more seminars will take place before the end of June, and other proposals have been received for seminars to be organised before the end of the year.

2. HIGHER EDUCATION

The Standing Conference on University Problems (CC-PU) held a European Conference on "Universities and Democratisation" in Warsaw from 29-31 January 1991. The conference, which was originally scheduled for September 1991, was held in co-operation with Warsaw University and the Polish Ministry of National Education.

The conference was attended by 67 government and university delegates representing 24 of the States party to the European Cultural Convention, Latvia, as an observer, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, and seven international organisations. The Polish delegation was headed by the Minister of Education. Romania was represented by the Deputy Minister of Education.

The conference contributed to an improved understanding of the role and importance of higher education in the democratisation of society, drawing on the experience of Western Europe as well as the countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

It also focused on the democratic governance of universities and other institutions of higher education, and the teaching of human rights and other disciplines central in this context. The conference further made valuable contributions to the Council of Europe's work in higher education, in particular the activities with special relevance to the countries of Eastern and Central Europe, such as legislative reform in higher education. The results of the conference will be disseminated through a publication as well as through the Council of Europe's contribution to the UNESCO/CEPES Conference on "Academic Freedom and University Autonomy" (Bucharest, 5-7 May 1992).

The CC-PU held its 15th Session in Strasbourg from 31 March to 2 April 1992. On the morning of the final day, a formal joint session was held in the hemicycle of the Palais de l'Europe, with 160 university rectors attending the 40th biennial session of the Conference of Rectors, Presidents and Vice Chancellors of the European Universities (CRE).

The main item of the business session was a discussion on the CC-PU and higher education in a changing Europe, including the role and function of the CC-PU itself. The CC-PU underlined its concern with the difficult, and in some countries, critical situation of higher education in Central and Eastern Europe. A reasoned proposal for the renewal of the CC-PU's terms of reference will be prepared, incuding revisions necessary to meet the new challenges. The CC-PU approved the concept and outline of a new project on legislative reform in higher education in Central and Eastern Europe, to be financed primarily by voluntary contributions. This will allow a considerable intensification of work already started within the "Demosthenes" programme. The CC-PU also adopted and forwarded to the CDCC a "General Declaration on the European Equivalence Conventions", adopted its work programme for 1993 and elected its Bureau. The Conference of Mediterranean Universities contributed to the CC-PU main theme debate on "Mediterranean co-operation and European integration: a challenge to universities", taking up themes addressed in Recommendations 1162 (1991), 1164 (1991) and 1166 (1991) of the Parliamentary Assembly in the context of inter-university co-operation and exchanges.

3. CULTURE

Project IV.31: European programme of evaluation of national cultural policies

The Finnish Minister responsible for Cultural Affairs recently submitted an application for his country to be included in the European programme of evaluation of cultural policies.

At the 4th meeting of the Culture Committee (26-27 March 1992), Hungary submitted its application and Portugal confirmed its application.

Project IV.32: Promoting the cultural dimension of communication

The first meeting of the Committee of governmental experts on cultural aspects of communication, was held in Strasbourg on 14-15 April. It decided the follow-up action to be taken on the programme for the assessment of television cultural policy and made suitable proposals regarding the future work programme. Work is also continuing on the "Regional television" project which will focus this year on the relationship between the regional daily press and regional television. Surveys are being carried out in 16 regions and the findings will be examined in June to ensure that results are available for the Colloquy due to be held in Lille in the autumn of 1992.

Project IV.33: Developing the territorial dimension of cultural action

At its 4th meeting, the Culture Committee proposed that interregional cultural co-operation be financed within the framework of the CDCC's programme on an experimental basis, it being understood that the Cultural Fund was in a position to accept all voluntary public or private contributions from external sources.

Project IV.34: Training of area-based cultural administrators

The European training programme for cultural administrators and agents in area-based cultural development is expanding in scope. Existing activities (European Diploma for Cultural Managers, activities of the network of training centres) are to be supplemented by a bursary system and training seminars specially oriented towards the needs of the new member States.

Project IV.35: European Cultural Routes

An Advisory Council has been set up to conduct in-depth consideration of this programme.

The proposed setting up of a resource centre is being studied from a methodological standpoint in order to determine appropriate tools (bulletin), partners and target groups.

An exemplary route "model" is to be established. It will have a dual theme focusing on Monasticism and on Parks and Gardens in Europe.

Project IV.36: Promotion of cultural creativity and dissemination

Two major events are to be held in the context of activities to encourage literary and theatrical creativity and exchanges for children and young people. One will be at Békéscsaba in Hungary where a young people's European drama encounter (EDERED) will bring together participants from 31 countries including Albania, Estonia and Lithaunia (12-25 July). The other will be in Paris where a "Gateways to legend" European Festival organised by the Group for the Promotion of the Performing Arts (GES) will be attended by over 2 000 young people, 100 actors and 150 teachers (22 to 24 May). East European countries will again be represented (Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Poland, Russia).

Project IV.37: Fostering European cinema

The East/West Working Party is collaborating with the French National Cinema Centre (CNC) to organise a first producers' meeting aimed at establishing genuine contacts between professionals (May 1992).

In April, the "Archives" Group examined a questionnaire which will be distributed to the signatories of the Cultural Convention in order to determine the degree of protection their respective national legislation currently provides for the audiovisual heritage.

SERVICE ACTIVITIES

Council of Europe Art Exhibitions

The 22nd Council of Europe Art Exhibition, "The Vikings... the Scandinavians and Europe, 800-1200" will run until 12 July 1992 at the Grand Palais in Paris. The opening ceremony was attended by HM Queen Margrethe of Denmark, President Mitterrand of France, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, the Chairman of the Ministers' Deputies, and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Assembly's Committee on Culture and Education. The exhibition will also be held in Berlin and Copenhagen.

Forum of European networks of cultural centres

The first European network of Mediterranean cultural centres will meet at the Delphi Cultural Centre from 22 to 24 May. Following the last Forum, a study group has been established to stimulate and assess the activities of the networks.

Research, cultural documentation and technical assistance

In addition to the regular publication of the "Circular" newsletter, the CIRCLE (Network of Cultural Information and Research Centres in Europe) survey of cultural management in Europe has just been published. The preparation of a Round Table on "Human rights and cultural rights" (Helsinki, October 1992) should also be mentioned, as should that of a major survey on participation in cultural life in Europe.

4. CULTURAL HERITAGE

Project IV.41: Prospects for conservation: what strategies?

The Group of Specialists was asked by the Cultural Heritage Committee (CC-PAT) to make proposals for the follow-up to the 3rd European Conference of Ministers responsible for the cultural heritage (Malta, 16-17 January 1992)9 in the fields of conservation strategies and the balanced development of historic towns. It discussed during its first 1992 meeting the draft report prepared by two members of the groups and the programme of an international conference involving local authorities to be possibly organised in 1993.

The group also examined the working method to be adopted for the compilation of a periodically updated "European Directory of Heritage Policies" providing useful means of recording trends in the various countries' legislation and practice.

Part IV.42: Heritage landscapes and sites

The Group of Specialists met in Germany after a colloquy organised by the ICOMOS International Committee of Vernacular Architecture on the theme "Protection and conservation of the rural architectural heritage: heritage landscape and sites in Europe".

Further work was carried out by the group for the preparation of a Recommendation to member States on the protection of heritage landscape.

SERVICE ACTIVITIES

Technical assistance for the enhancement of the architectural heritage

The final report concerning the mission to Tropea (Italy) was adopted and transmitted to local authorities. A follow up was organised to the former mission to Guatemala and two new applications from Urbino (Italy) and Valencia (Spain) were examined.

5. SPORT

Committee for the Development of Sport (CDDS)

(15th meeting - Strasbourg, 26-28 February 1992)

As its 15th meeting, in which Bulgaria and Romania took part for the first time as full members, the CDDS adopted its programme of activities for 1992 and its draft programme for 1993.

The representatives of France and Spain reported on the results of the Albertville Olympics and preparations for the forthcoming Barcelona Olympics respectively. The Albertville games had proceeeded very satisfactorily and the efforts of the Standing Committee of the European Convention on Spectator Violence (T-RV) and the Monitoring Group of the Anti-Doping Convention (T-DO) over several years had been vindicated, since no spectator misbehaviour had been reported and the drugs tests had given no positive results.

The Committee put the finishing touches to the Code of Ethics for Fair Play in Sport and the European "Sport for All" Charter II, to be presented to the European Ministers responsible for Sport when they meet in Rhodes in May 199210.

With regard to mutual co-operation for the development of sport in Europe, it was decided to continue to hold multilateral workshops on specific themes and to extend the organisation of mobile seminars, which had been a marked success in 1991, to other countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

It was decided to set up an ad hoc planning group to co-ordinate the activities of the CDDS and of non-governmental organisations such as the Association of European National Olympic Committees (AENOC), the European Sports Conference and the European Non-governmental Sports Organisation (ENGSO).FIELD V

YOUTH

"Europe's future"

EUROPEAN YOUTH CENTRE

During the period covered by the present report the European Youth Centre (EYC) organised fourteen study sessions in co-operation with international non-governmental youth organisations (INGYOs) on subjects such as:

- Equal partnership

- Women and health

- Authorising young women and encouraging young men to be different

- European-Arab relations

- An all-European Federation - dream or reality

- Volunteering and disability

- I'm training for a real job.

Several meetings were held to prepare the Second European Youth Week which will be organised in July in Bratislava.

Intergovernmental co-operation

The European Steering Committee for Intergovernmental Co-operation in the Youth Field (CDEJ) met on 17-19 March 1992. The CDEJ had an exchange of views on the Greater Europe project (International Youth Mobility) and continued the preparations of the 4th European Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth in Vienna (April 1993)11.

The Group of Specialists set up for the Youth Mobility Project held its first meeting (21-27 March 1992) to discuss the reports presented by the consultant experts covering a wide range of topics: a study on simplification of administrative procedures for mobility, studies on social and health protection and harmonisation of bilateral and multilateral agreements on youth mobility and exchanges.

EUROPEAN YOUTH FOUNDATION

Financial support for international youth activities

During the period January-May 1992, the European Youth Foundation has financially contributed towards the realisation of 55 projects by youth organisations.

The amount granted by the Foundation for the period in question totals 3 518 000 FF.

Of the projects granted, 38 were international youth meetings in the following member States of the Council of Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Turkey.

These international meetings brought together approximately 3 000 young people from all Council of Europe member States, including European non-member States and non-European countries (4%).

Themes principally dealt with for these activities concerned the construction of Europe, European identity, the Greater Europe, environment, social problems facing young people, participation of young people in society, minorities, North-South dialogue, professional training of young people, voluntary youth work, prevention of drug addiction, the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America.

In addition, during the period in question, the EYF contributed towards the realisation of 17 projects concerning research, documentation and publications, for example magazines and European bulletins of youth organisations, production of educational games (on the European institutions), and other educational material (on development education, intercultural learning, equality between women and men).

Statutory meetings

The EYC/EYF Advisory Committee met in April 1992. At this meeting, youth organisations were invited to give their views on a proposal to change the EYF Statute in connection with the administrative restructuring of the youth sector.

FIELD VI

HEALTH

"The European dimension of health"

Committee of Ministers

The Committee of Ministers adopted on 27 March 1992 Resolution (92) 5 on the continuation of the financial support for the European bank of frozen blood of rare groups in Amsterdam12.

Project VI.1: Training and Planning in Health Services

Multiprofessional training of health staff

This study is being carried out by a research group of five experts and a study director. It aims at examining practice in member States with regard to multiprofessional training of health staff and to make proposals on enhancing team work and reciprocal appreciation of roles.

The research group should finish its work later this year. Meanwhile the study visits carried out by the five experts indicate that apart from a few member States, this form of training is still in an experimental stage.

Project VI.2: Ethical Aspects of Health

1. Early intervention on HIV Infection

The increasing possibilities of early intervention for HIV-infected persons are likely to affect public health policies, especially on the position of the infected individual.

As the evaluation of early interventions is still limited, potential benefits should be carefully balanced against possible risks.

A working party set up to examine the implications of the availability of methods for early treatment of asymptomatic HIV-infection, from the public health point of view including the social, ethical and legal aspects, will finish its work later this year.

2. Communication of health information in the hospital

A working group has completed a study on the legal and ethical aspects of communication of health information in the hospital. This study follows a number of activities on medical informatics carried out in the last five years. A draft Recommendation on this issue has already been drawn up and will be submitted for adoption by the European Health Committee (CDSP) later this year.

Project VI.3: Education for Health

Following the Conference on the Promotion of Education for Health held in September 1990, the Council of Europe, the Commission of the European Communities and the World Health Organisation (Europe) agreed to launch an education for health programme throughout Europe as a follow-up to the pilot projects carried out between 1985 and 1990.

Each member State is being invited to repeat the experience in a number of schools on its territory, under the guidance of a national co-ordinator and of an international planning committee made up of representatives of the three organisations concerned.

A first meeting of all the co-ordinators will be held on 21-22 May 1992 in Strasbourg.

Moreover a summer school for the training of teachers in education for health will be held in Lisbon in August 1992.

Project VI.4: Screening

A Committee of Experts on Screening has been set up to study the organisational and cost benefit implications of large-scale screening programmes and to try to ascertain the social pre-requisites for launching large scale preventive medicine schemes at local, national or European level. The committee of experts held a first meeting on 27-29 April 1992.

SERVICE ACTIVITIES

1. Co-operation and training in blood transfusion and histocompatibility

A European Conference on Histocompatibility was held at the Council of Europe on 24-26 March 1992. This conference is held every two years with a view to helping people working in histocompatibility to keep abreast with scientific progress and the latest techniques. Histocompatibility is a field of primary importance in organ transplantation. The conference, which was aimed at young technicians and researchers, attracted over 500 persons from all over Europe.

A course in blood transfusion for experts working in this field will be held in Lisbon in October 1992.

2. Organ transplants

The collaboration installed between member States and particularly between the main national transplant centres has developed into a series of important initiatives:

a. a computerised network for the exchange of livers in super-urgent cases between European countries will become operational this year.

A data processing company (IBM) has provided the hardware for the network. The Council of Europe and the Commission of the European Communities are jointly financing the software.

b. The Committee of Experts responsible for Organ Transplantation has prepared a draft Recommendation on the organisation and control of human tissue for transplantation and implantation purposes. This Recommendation, which aims at controlling the use of human tissue to avoid any possible abuse in trafficking of this tissue, is at the moment being examined by the CDSP.

c. The same Committee is now examining existing practices within the various transplantation organisations and effectiveness of different approaches in increasing the availability of organs for transplantation. The purpose of this study is to find the failings in present systems and to make proposals on how to increase the availability of organs.

CONVENTIONAL ACTIVITIES

A Committee of Experts on Blood Transfusion and Immunohaematology (SP-HM) controls the implementation of three European agreements in the field of blood transfusion.

The work is mostly aimed at promoting the principle of donation, improving quality techniques and encouraging self-sufficiency.

With regard to self-sufficiency, the Council of Europe is now working very closely with the Commission of the European Communities to promote self-sufficiency at the European level.

FIELD VII

MANAGEMENT OF SPACE AND THE NATURAL WORLD

"A better environment for all Europeans"

The 7th meeting of the Steering Committee for the Conservation and Management of the Environment and Natural Habitats (CDPE) was held in Strasbourg from 3 to 6 March 1992. Concerning the European Diploma, it proposed 5 renewals and 3 awards; concerning the European Network of Biogenetic Reserves, it requested an extension of the network and proposed amendments to the Rules.

The CDPE also approved a draft Recommendation on soil protection and a draft Recommendation on the potential ecological impact of the contained use and deliberate release of genetically modified organisms. The Committee proposed that 1995 could be designated as European Nature Conservation Year.

Project VII.2: Soil conservation and protection of the landscape

The Group of Specialists on Soil Conservation (PE-S-SO) met on 28 and 29 April 1992 in Strasbourg. It started work on its programme of activities which was approved by the Steering Committee: namely the elaboration of a handbook on soil conservation.

Project VII.3: Genetics and ecosystems

The Group of Specialists "Biodiversity and Biosubsistence" (PE-S-BB)

met on 21 and 22 April 1992 in order to examine the revised study prepared by Prof. P. Wyse Jackson on European wild progenitors requiring urgent conservation actions, as well as to prepare and organise a first workshop on this matter to be held in Portugal in June 1992.

SERVICE ACTIVITIES

Centre Naturopa

A group of specialists of the National Agencies of the Centre Naturopa met on 13 and 14 February to finalise draft propositions for the attention of the CDPE concerning European Nature Conservation Year 1995. The CDPE has submitted this draft, with its approval, to the Committee of Ministers.

Naturopa-Newsletter, the monthly bulletin, has been produced at the frequency desired, and the magazine Naturopa, No. 68, has just been published as a tribute to the work of the Parliamentary Assembly for the natural environment.

FIELD VIII

LOCAL DEMOCRACY

"Democracy at the grass-roots"

Committee of Ministers

On 27 March 1992, the Ministers' Deputies adopted Recommendation No. R (92) 5 on borrowing by local and regional authorities13.

The Ministers' Deputies authorised the publication of the following reports prepared by the Steering Committee on Local and Regional Authorities (CDLR):

- Handbook for observers of elections,

- Status and working conditions of local and regional elected representatives,

- Borrowing by local and regional authorities.

Project VIII.1: Strengthening local democracy

As a follow-up to the 9th Conference of European Ministers responsible for Local Government, the Steering Committee on Local and Regional Authorities (CDLR) organised, at the invitation of the Polish Government, a Colloquy on "Decentralisation and the Strengthening of Local Self-Government" in Cracow (Poland) on 13-14 April 1992. The following themes were discussed:

1. General criteria adopted by States for establishing a link between decentralised powers and the financial resources made available to local authorities;

2. Forms of local authority management which allow adequate control while reducing direct intervention by central authorities;

3. Structures and functions of local authorities:

a. Relationship between the size of local authorities and the scope of the powers that may be devolved to them,

b. Relations between different tiers of local authorities;

4. How to reconcile in practice the concepts of decentralisation and balanced regional development.

Project VIII.2: Minority languages

The Ad Hoc Committee of Experts on Regional or Minority Languages in Europe (CAHLR) held its 7th and 8th meetings on 19-21 February and 30 March - 1 April 1992 respectively. It finalised the text of the draft European Charter for regional or minority languages for submission to the Committee of Ministers. The CAHLR recommended that it take the legal form of a Convention.

The CAHLR also adopted an explanatory report on the Charter and decided to send it to the Committee of Ministers, requesting approval for publication.

Finally, the CAHLR asked the Committee of Ministers to authorise publication of a compilation of contributions from national delegations concerning the situation of regional or minority languages in Europe.

These questions are being examined by the Committee of Ministers.

FIELD IX

LEGAL CO-OPERATION

"A law to match Europe's future"

Committee of Ministers

The Committee of Ministers adopted, on 10 February 1992, Recommendation No. R (92) 1 on the use of analysis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) within the framework of the criminal justice system14.

It also adopted, on the same day, Recommendation No. R (92) 3 on genetic testing and screening for health care purposes15.

Finally, the Committee of Ministers adopted, on 10 February 1992, Resolution (92) 2 containing rules on fellowships for study visits abroad by lawyers16.

The Committee of Legal Advisers on Public International Law (CAHDI) met in Graz (Austria) on 16-17 March 1992. In addition to the experts from Council of Europe member States, observers from the following States attended the meeting: Albania, Australia, Canada, Croatia, Holy See, Japan, Slovenia and the United States of America; The Hague Conference on Private International Law, OECD and EEC were also represented.

At this third meeting, the CAHDI held an exchange of views on State succession in Europe relating to treaties, jurisdictional immunities of States and their assets, the privileges and immunities of experts on official assignments, the signing of a treaty ad referendum, evaluation of the results of the 46th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, the United Nations Decade of International Law from 1990 to 1999, the possible preparation of a publication on State practice in the field of international law in Council of Europe member States and Central and Eastern European countries and the abduction of children.

The CAHDI also adopted an opinion for consideration by the European Committee on Legal Co-operation (CDCJ) on the draft Convention on civil liability for damage resulting from activities dangerous to the environment. It also proposed setting up a specialist group to examine questions concerning publications on State practice in the field of public international law.

The next meeting of the CAHDI is due to be held in Paris on 14-15 September 1992.

The Select Committee of Experts on Criminological and Prison Aspects of the Control of Transmissible Diseases, including AIDS and related Health Problems in Prison (including the problems of treating prisoners who are drug addicts or AIDS victims) (PC-R-SI) completed its work on this subject at its 7th meeting, held in Strasbourg on 25-27 February 1992.

The committee unanimously approved the draft Recommendation on the criminological and prison aspects of the control of transmissible diseases, including AIDS and related health problems in prison, as well as the draft explanatory memorandum relating thereto. Both texts will be submitted for adoption to the European Committee on Crime Problems (CDPC) at its 41st plenary session, to be held on 22-26 June 1992, and afterwards to the Committee of Ministers.

Project IX.2: Administrative law and the rule of law

The Project Group on Administrative Law (CJ-DA) held its 2nd meeting on 18-21 February 1992. In conformity with point 4 (a) of its terms of reference, the Project Group decided to focus initially on the preparation of a draft Recommendation on privatisation, in view of the urgency of privatisations in some of the Central and Eastern European countries which have joined the Council of Europe or are likely to do so in the near future. Consequently, the drawing up of some basic administrative and procedural rules, reflecting a common European standard aimed at creating a model for an administrative and judicial system which guarantees legal security for citizens, was postponed to 1993.

At its first meeting, in Budapest in October 1991, the Project Group had decided to set up a working party. The working party was instructed to continue the drafting work on the basis of the preliminary version of the draft Recommendation drawn up by the CJ-DA at its second meeting.

The CJ-DA decided to hold its next meeting on 7-9 October 1992. The working party will meet on 12-14 May 1992.

Project IX.3: Data protection and the rights of the individual

The Project Group on Data Protection (CJ-PD) held its 23rd meeting on 28-31 January 1992. It approved the draft Recommendation on the protection of personal data in the area of telecommunications services, with particular reference to telephone services, and instructed the Secretariat to adapt the draft explanatory memorandum to the amended text of the draft Recommendation. Both texts will be transmitted to the European Committee on Legal Co-operation (CDCJ) at its 57th meeting, (22-25 June 1992) for examination and approval and for subsequent transmission to the Committee of Ministers.

At its 6th meeting (4-6 March 1992), Working Party No. 12 (medical data) approved a draft Recommendation on the protection of medical data and agreed to submit it to the CJ-PD for approval at its 24th meeting (22-25 September 1992).

Project IX.4: Bioethics

The ad hoc Committee of Experts on Bioethics (CAHBI) held its 15th meeting in Madrid on 24-27 March 1992.

The CAHBI had two main objectives at this meeting: to meet the representatives of the European ethics committees in connection with their first round table, and to examine a preliminary draft outline Convention on bioethics as well as the protocols thereto.

After examining the preliminary draft outline Convention on bioethics and the protocols thereto and holding a discussion, the CAHBI decided to set up a working party to draft these instruments with the following terms of reference: (a) to prepare, for the CAHBI's consideration, a legal text on bioethics in the form of an outline Convention taking account of the decisions of the CAHBI's plenary meeting as well as the preparatory work carried out by working parties on the protocols; (b) to prepare the relevant explanatory memorandum; (c) to make proposals (and, where appropriate, alternative suggestions) on other matters of relevance to the convention.

While the CAHBI was meeting, the first round table of ethics committees took place in Madrid on 24-25 March 1992. On the first day the round table was held separately from the CAHBI's meeting for a discussion on the concept of ethics committees on the basis of a report on "national ethics bodies", presented by Miss Sonia Le Bris (University of Montreal, Canada). It also discussed the possibility of establishing a European ethics committee.

On the second day a joint meeting of the CAHBI and the ethics committees took place, where the two sides' conclusions were presented. At the end of the joint meeting, following a proposal by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, the participants agreed that a Standing Conference of Ethics Committees should meet once a year in order to exchange information. Secretarial services would be provided by the Council of Europe. The CAHBI requested the Committee of Ministers to authorise the publication of the proceedings of the first round table as well as the report on "national ethics bodies".

The next meeting of the CAHBI will take place on 24-27 November 1992.

Project IX.5: Efficiency and fairness of civil and criminal justice

The Select Committee of Experts on Sentencing (PC-R-SN) held its 7th meeting on 25-27 March 1992. At the meeting, the committee adopted a draft Recommendation on consistency in sentencing as well as an explanatory memorandum relating thereto.

In this text the Committee of Ministers is invited to recommend that the governments of member States, while having regard to their own constitutional principles and legal traditions, especially the independence of the judiciary, take appropriate measures for the promotion of the principles and recommendations set out in Appendix I, so as to avoid unwarranted disparity in sentencing. Appendix I comprises some basic principles for sentencing, as well as a set of general guidelines concerning penalty structure, aggravating and mitigating factors, previous convictions, the obligation to give reasons for sentences, the prohibition of reformatio in peius, time spent in custody, the role of the prosecutor, sentencing studies and information and European co-operation regarding sentencing information.

The draft Recommendation and the accompanying explanatory memorandum will be submitted for approval to the CDPC at its 41st plenary session on 22-26 June 1992, then transmitted to the Committee of Ministers for adoption and publication.

The Project Group on the Management of Criminal justice (PC-R-EF) held its first meeting on 19-21 February 1992. The aim was to exchange views on the preparatory work of the PC-S-EF Group and organise the PC-R-EF's future work.

The participants examined the Project Group's terms of reference and a list of management problems drawn up by the PC-S-EF Group. They prepared a questionnaire to be sent to Council of Europe member States in order to obtain the information required for their future work. The next meeting will be held on 4-6 November 1992.

Project IX.7: Protection of and prevention of damage to the environment

The Committee of Experts on Compensation for Damage caused to the Environment (CJ-EN) met on 3-6 March 1992. It continued drawing up a draft Convention on civil liability for damage resulting from activities dangerous to the environment. In particular it drafted the final clauses, the text of which was submitted for an opinion to the Committee of Legal Advisers on Public International Law (CAHDI) at its meeting on 16-17 March 1992. The CJ-EN is due to finalise the text of the draft Convention at its next meeting, on 19-22 May 1992.

The CEFIC (European Council of Chemical Manufacturers' Federations) was given a hearing by the CJ-EN on 4 March 1992. It declared that the industry accepted the legal principles underlying the draft Convention. Its Secretary General also lent his backing to the Council of Europe in its role of ensuring the consistency of all international texts on civil liability.

The Committee of Experts on the Protection of the Environment through Criminal Law (PC-EN) held its first meeting on 1-3 April 1992. It examined its terms of reference and took some decisions on its future work.

At the end of the meeting, the participants recommended that, if possible, a convention should be drawn up on the protection of the environment through criminal law, dealing with substantive criminal-law matters and international questions, and that a recommendation on certain aspects of procedural law should also be prepared.

The committee of experts is to hold its next plenary meeting on 9-11 December 1992. The Specialist Group will meet on 14-16 October 1992.

Project IX.8: Europe in a time of change (crime policy and criminal law)

The Group of Specialists "Europe in a time of change: crime policy and criminal law" (PC-S-TP) held a meeting on 30 March to 1 April 1992 in order to prepare a project on crime policy and criminal law in a "Europe in a time of change", for submission to the CDPC at its 41st session (22-26 June 1992). The project group to be set up on the subject is to meet on 7-9 December 1992.

SERVICE ACTIVITIES

1. Law Colloquies

The Committee of Experts on Legal Data Processing (CJ-IJ) approved at its 17th meeting (17-19 March 1992) the draft Recommendation concerning teaching, research and training in the field of law and information technology and the accompanying draft explanatory memorandum prepared by one of its working parties. Both texts will be examined by the CDCJ at its 57th meeting (22-25 June 1992) and transmitted to the Committee of Ministers for adoption.

The CJ-IJ also made arrangements for the 10th Colloquy on Legal Data Processing in Europe, to be held in Ankara in October 1992 on the theme: "The present state and future development of legal data processing systems in European countries". It drew up a draft programme for the Colloquy and appointed the general rapporteurs. The CJ-IJ also approved a proposal to hold the 11th Colloquy in Montreal (Canada) in 1993.

As is customary, the CJ-IJ then held a detailed exchange of views on developments in legal data processing in member States and observer countries during the past year. It was pleased to note the interest taken in its work by the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, many of which were attending the meeting: Albania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Russia. It should also be noted that the Holy See was taking part in the CJ-IJ's work for the first time.

The CJ-IJ decided to hold its 18th meeting in March 1993. It intends to hold meetings of its working parties before then in order to finalise two other draft Recommendations already in preparation.

2. Criminological and Prison Conferences and Colloquies

The Council for Penological Co-operation (PC-R-CP), at its meeting on 3-5 March 1992, examined certain questions in its sphere of responsibility: preparation of the 10th Conference of Directors of Prison Administrations, due to be held in Strasbourg on 25-27 May 1992; the Prison Information Bulletins; activities organised as part of co-operation with Central and East European countries; future activities concerning penological matters.

The Council also carried out a final examination of the draft Recommendation on European rules on community sanctions and measures and the accompanying draft explanatory memorandum. Both texts were unanimously approved by the PC-R-CP and will be submitted for approval to the European Committee on Crime Problems (CDPC) at its 41st plenary session (22-26 June 1992) and later, for adoption, to the Committee of Ministers.

The PC-R-CP will meet again on 3-5 November 1992.

CONVENTIONAL ACTIVITIES

European Agreement on Regulations governing the movement of persons between member States of the Council of Europe

One year after the Vienna Conference on the Movement of Persons from Central and Eastern European Countries, attended by the Ministers and heads of delegation of 35 States, the Group of Senior Officials responsible for the follow-up to the Conference (Vienna Group) met in Strasbourg on 29-31 January 1992. As a reflection of the developments in Europe during the past 12 months, 42 countries were invited to take part in this third meeting, at which the European Community and several intergovernmental organisations were also represented.

The Senior Officials took stock of the work carried out on the various matters assigned to them by the Ministers with a view to regulating migration in the New Europe. They reaffirmed in particular that freedom to travel does not imply a right of settlement and that the restoration of freedom in Central and Eastern Europe ought to result in the elimination of most of the factors causing people to seek asylum.

They especially emphasised the need to co-ordinate the numerous bilateral and multilateral activities aimed at contributing to economic restructuring and thus eliminate one of the main causes of emigration. Having examined a number of pilot projects for vocational training and reintegration, they expressed the wish that such initiatives should be multiplied and, where appropriate, carried out jointly by several countries.

Consideration is being given to measures designed to improve the provision, for the citizens of Central and Eastern European countries, of full and accurate information on regulations governing entry to the countries of Western Europe and on living and working conditions there.

The Senior Officials agreed to hold a 4th meeting (1-2 September 1992) before submitting the results of their work to the Ministers.

Convention on the Reduction of Cases of Multiple Nationality and on Military Obligations in the Case of Multiple Nationality

The Committee of Experts on Multiple Nationality (CJ-PL) met in Strasbourg on 25-27 February 1992. In accordance with its new terms of reference, it held an exchange of views on recent developments relating to the law of nationality in Europe and emphasised the need to discuss this question in respect of Central and Eastern Europe.

During the meeting, the CJ-PL took a number of decisions. It decided that information on nationality law should be supplied to the different countries by the Council of Europe by means of a "nationality bulletin" and a documentation centre on nationality. Countries would send the Secretariat the necessary information for setting up the documentation centre and producing the bulletin according to an agreed procedure. The Secretariat, for its part, would seek to obtain information on the nationality laws of other European countries, especially those of Central and Eastern Europe, in order to make it available to the CJ-PL; it was asked to contact those countries to this end. The CJ-PL also hoped that representatives of these countries would take part in its meetings in future. At its next meeting, to be held on 8-10 December 1992, the CJ-PL propose to discuss Chapter I of the Convention on the Reduction of Cases of Multiple Nationality (ETS 43) in the light of recent developments in nationality law.

European Convention on the Service Abroad of Documents relating to Administrative Matters

European Convention on the Obtaining Abroad of Information and Evidence in Administrative Matters

A multilateral consultation among the Contracting States to the European Convention on the Service Abroad of Documents relating to Administrative Matters (ETS No. 94) and/or the European Convention on the Obtaining Abroad of Information and Evidence in Administrative Matters (ETS No. 100) was held in Strasbourg on 29 January 1992.

At present seven States are Parties to Convention No. 94: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and Spain. Five States are Parties to Convention No. 100: Belgium, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and Portugal.

Participants held an extensive exchange of views on problems of applying both conventions, as raised by the Italian Government. In the ensuing discussion it was pointed out that one of the two conventions covered requests for information and the other requests for the service of documents. These two aspects were crucial if co-operation in administrative matters was to work; States should therefore ratify both conventions. However, pending ratification of both conventions, States should also endeavour to overcome bureaucratic difficulties and seek appropriate compromises.

All the delegates from States that have not ratified either convention or both agreed that they would inform their authorities of the importance of ratification for rounding off the system of administrative co-operation.

No precise date was set for the next multilateral consultation. Whenever a State Party to one convention or both wishes a consultation meeting to be held, it will inform the Secretariat, which will convene the meeting accordingly. The Secretariat was asked to transmit the report of the consultation meeting, for information, to the Committee of Ministers, the European Committee on Legal Co-operation, and the European Committee on Crime Problems, as well as to all the designated central authorities.

European Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data

The Consultative Committee of the Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data (ETS 108) held its 6th meeting in Strasbourg on 5-7 February 1992.

The committee familiarised itself with developments in the Council of Europe in the field of data protection since its previous meeting, such as the ratification by Finland of Convention No. 108 on 2 December 1991, raising the number of Parties to twelve. It then held an exchange of views on recent developments in the participating countries.

With regard to the proposals of the Commission of the European Communities in the field of data protection, the committee held an exchange of views with the Commission's representatives and agreed to resume its discussions on the subject of accession by the European Community at its 7th meeting, on the basis of any observations that might be made by representatives and observers on the questions identified and on an outline protocol to be drawn up by the Secretariat.

The committee also agreed to decide at its 7th meeting on the precise status to be given to the model clauses to be included in a standard contract designed to ensure equivalent protection of personal data in the context of transborder data flows, in the light of the results of a practical experiment as well as any observations the representatives, observers, Commission of the European Community and the International Chamber of Commerce might wish to make.

The committee examined the study made by a consultant on the data protection problems raised by international personal data files. From the consultant's study, it concluded that not enough information was available to tell whether or not the relevant provisions of Convention No. 108 were being observed in the collection, processing and communication of personal data stored in international data files.

Consequently, the representatives and observers undertook to approach the data protection authority in their country, as far as possible, with a view to obtaining the following information:

a. whether, in the opinion of the authority, the provisions of Convention No. 108 and of domestic legislation were generally being observed with regard to: (i) the communication of personal data to international data files, and (ii) the processing and communication of personal data by the controllers of international data files;

b. some concrete examples of situations where the data protection authority had concluded that the provisions of the convention and of domestic legislation had not been observed.

The committee noted that Article 4 of its Rules of Procedure did not provide for the admission of representatives from international institutions and organisations concerned with the protection of personal data to its meetings on a permanent basis. It therefore inserted a new Article 4 bis into its Rules of Procedure for this purpose and took certain relevant decisions in this respect.

The committee will hold its 7th meeting on 14-16 October.

IV. PARTIAL AGREEMENTS

1. Partial agreement in the social and public health field17

A. Public health questions

Committee of Experts on Pesticides (P-SP-PE)

A joint Council of Europe/EPPO (European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation) panel is elaborating decision-making schemes on environmental risk assessment of pesticides.

Expert groups are at present preparing resolutions and guidelines on potential risks for the consumer from non-agricultural pesticides, pesticides residues in ground-water and on the impacts of pesticides on the environment and on public health.

Committee of Experts on Pharmaceutical Questions (P-SP-PH)

The Committee of Experts on Pharmaceutical Questions is elaborating a resolution on the rational use of drugs, continuing its study on clinical pharmacy and, as a follow up of the seminar on the role and training of the community pharmacist, held in Strasbourg in October 1991, it is preparing the proceedings of the seminar and finalising a resolution on this subject.

B. Rehabilitation and integration of people with disabilities

Committee of Ministers

The Committee of Ministers adopted on 9 April 1992 Recommendation No. R (92) 6 on a coherent policy for people with disabilities18.

2. Pompidou Group19

The working group responsible for the preparation of the seminar on the role of the police in preventing drug abuse and alternatives to prosecution for offenders with drug problems met on 22-23 January 1992 in Strasbourg and decided to hold the seminar on 23-26 June 1992, at the Palais de l'Europe.

A working group on drug control services in Mediterranean ports met in Trieste (Italy) on 12-13 March 1992. An Albanian delegation as well as representatives of the ports of Capodistria (Slovenia) and Rijeka (Croatia) participated in this meeting. The group proposed the holding of annual meetings to exchange information and reinforce international co-operation.

A training seminar for epidemiologists in drug abuse took place in Budapest from 16-20 March 1992. This seminar, financed by the "Demosthenes" programme, is the first in a series of seminars for epidemiology experts from Central and Eastern European countries, which will take place during 1992 and 1993.

The group of experts in epidemiology continued its work. A working group met in Amsterdam on 23-24 March 1992 to draw up a study on police arrests. Another working group responsible for the drawing-up of a methodology on cocaine prevalence met on 25 March in Amsterdam.

The working group on education and prevention activities and the role of the media met in Strasbourg on 31 March-2 April 1992. It was decided that a symposium should be held on the role of the media in shaping public attitudes to drugs, either in autumn 1992 or spring 1993.

The Permanent Correspondents met on 28-30 April 1992 and examined the conclusions of the different working groups. They decided to implement the action plan for following up the pan-European Ministerial Conference in Oslo.

3. Social Development Fund20

During the reference period the Governing Body met once (2 February 1992) and decided in particular to pursue the examination of its structures at its annual joint meeting in June 1992 in Florence.

As concerns Yugoslavia, the Governing Body decided to re-examine this question in the light of the decisions of the Committee of Ministers.

The Governing Body invited the Administrative Council to appoint, at its earliest convenience, an internal auditor for the Fund's operations.

The Auditing Board held its annual meeting (5-10 March) and certified that the Fund's balance-sheet and profit and loss account were in agreement with the books and other records and gave a true and fair picture of the state of the Fund's affairs as at 31 December 1991.

The Auditing Board also drew up proposals aiming at improving the Fund's control structures.

The Administrative Council met once (1-3 April 1992) and examined the Governor's Report. It noted that the Fund had made a profit of Ecu 31 169 232 in 1991. It discharged the Governor from his responsibilities for the 1991 financial year.

The Administrative Council examined and approved 7 loan requests for a total amount of Ecu 226 022 900 including 21% in favour of Italy and 79% in favour of Turkey, comprising Ecu 150 000 000 for the reconstruction of the area of Erzincan struck by an earthquake.

The Administrative Council appointed Ernst & Young internal auditor for 1992.

The Standing Committee on Financial Matters and the Joint Working Party on the Fund's Structures also met and continued their work.

4. European Pharmacopoeia21

The European Pharmacopoeia Commission held its 82nd Session on 17-19 March 1992. Final approval was given to a number of new quality standards for medicinal products and to revisions for some existing European standards. These standards will be published in the forthcoming fascicule 17 of the 2nd Edition of the Pharmacopoeia. Between January 1992 and end of May 1992, 30 meetings of groups of experts and ad hoc working parties took place.

Fascicule 16 of the 2nd Edition of the Pharmacopoeia is in press.

5. Partial Agreement instituting the European Support Fund for the co-production and distribution of creative cinematographic and audio-visual works - (EURIMAGES)22

At its 19th meeting, the Eurimages Board of Management awarded an amount of 20,35 MFF for the support of the co-production of 8 feature films and 1 creative documentary.

Moreover, the distribution of 6 European films in 3 different countries was supported.

Since its set-up in October 1988, Eurimages has supported the co-production of 101 feature films and 10 creative documentaries with a total amount of 244,04 MFF. The total production costs of these co-productions amount to 2 021 MFF of which 12,1% was covered by Eurimages' support. So far 42 distributors were supported for the distribution of 22 European films in 19 member States for a total amount of about 2,22 MFF.

The Committee of Ministers adopted on 10 February 1992 Resolution (92) 323 modifying Resolution (88) 15 setting up a European Support Fund for the co-production and distribution of creative cinematographic and audio-visual works ("Eurimages"). The purpose of the modifications is to enable Eurimages to participate in high-level co-productions aimed at large audiences in and outside the co-production countries.

Moreover, countries with a limited audio-visual output were given better access to participate in such above-average budget films. Finally, the conditions for the support of creative documentaries were relaxed in order to give the co-production of this important film genre a serious boost on the one hand and to foster co-operation between film and television on the other.

Following earlier negotiations, Eurimages will join efforts with Audiovisual Eureka in order to secure better and more direct communication of both schemes to professionals. A first step is the joint presentation for representatives of the so-called Media-desks. These Media-desks, set up under the aegis of the EC's Media'95 programme, aim at providing professionals in the member States concerned with precise information about the modalities of the various European support schemes. The decentralised structure of these Media-desks is expected to be of great help to overcome language and information barriers.

6. European Centre for Global Interdependence and Solidarity24

In the early months of 1992 there were many meetings to take stock of the role and activities of the North-South Centre and its priority activities in the months to follow. At their 472nd meeting, in March 1992, the Ministers' Deputies held an exchange of views, on the basis of the Centre's programme of activities and an oral presentation by its Executive Director, in preparation for an assessment of the activities and role of the Centre at the end of the three-year pilot project stage (Spring 1993). On the initiative of the Italian delegation, the Deputies also took note with keen interest of the broad lines of the project concerning trans-Mediterranean interdependence, which will form part of the Centre's programme for the second half of 1992, and expressed the desire to be kept abreast of developments in this project.

At the February 1992 session of the Assembly, the North-South interest group of NGOs with consultative status with the Council of Europe held an information meeting with the Executive Director of the Centre. The meeting was mainly concerned with preparations for the awareness-raising project "One World 1992", concerning the provision of information about the content of the Rio Conference ("Environment and Development"), and for the purpose of which the North-South Centre is widely co-ordinating national campaigns being prepared by NGOs on the subject.

On 26 and 27 March 1992 the fourth meeting of the European Consultative Committee on Global Interdependence and Solidarity ("North-South Committee") was held in Strasbourg. The North-South Committee, which comprises a large number of representatives of the quadrilogue (governments, parliaments, local and regional authorities, NGOs) drew up, in accordance with its statutory terms of reference, recommendations to the Executive Council of the Centre concerning the aims and objectives of the Centre, the programme of activities, priorities and the assessment of the Centre after the initial three-year period.

Alongside the meeting of the North-South Committee, a workshop on training and development of the quadrilogue at national level was held on 25 and 26 March 1992.

On 13 April 1992, the seventh meeting of the Executive Council of the North-South Centre was held in Paris. The following were elected on that occasion:

- Mr Victor Pereira CRESPO, Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Portugal from 1987 to 1991, Chairman, as government representative;

- Mr Harry AARTS, 1st Vice-Chairman, as parliamentary representative;

- Mr B GICQUEL, 2nd Vice-Chairman, as representative of the NGOs with consultative status with the Council of Europe.

As far as the implementation of the Centre's programme of activities is concerned, the project "One World 1992" is a contribution to the preparation of the United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development (UNCED) to be held in Rio in June 1992. The North-South Centre is involved in this initiative, launched by the "One World" group of broadcasters comprising nearly 70 public television channels wanting to increase public awareness of global interdependence and solidarity. At a planning meeting in Amsterdam on 23 and 24 February 1992, the specific action to be taken during the "One World 1992" season was discussed by participants representing governments, NGOs and local and regional authorities and parliamentarians from 22 European countries and representatives of several international federations supporting "One World" (NGO Liaison Committee of the European Community, youth organisations, etc). On the basis of the "One World 1992" television programmes, the Centre has also produced a teaching pack for use in and outside schools.

As part of its education and training programme, the Centre held an initial seminar in Cartigny (Switzerland) in December 1991 under the title "Education and training in the field of environment and development". Participants came from six French-speaking and German-speaking Western European countries (Austria, Germany, Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Switzerland), three Central European countries (Czech and Slovak Federal Republic, Hungary, Poland) and Brazil. A second seminar was held in Upsala (Sweden) in April 1992, with participants from the five Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden), the three Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) and Ireland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

As part of the youth programme, an international workshop of youth leaders was held in Cascais (Portugal) in December 1991. This was a joint initiative by the North-South Centre and the Council of European National Youth Committees (CENYC). The purpose of the workshop was to prepare young people throughout Europe to become involved in the "One World 1992" campaign and to strengthen co-operation between young people in the field of environment and development education. The first stage of the Youth Links Project, a joint initiative of the North-South Centre, the European Youth Centre (EYC), the Youth Division of UNESCO and the Portuguese Youth Ministry, took place from 24 January to 8 February 1992. A delegation of 15 Europeans actively involved in the international dimension of youth policy visited Cape Verde, Mozambique and Angola to meet their southern counterparts. A film was made of the first stage of the project so that the message could be put across to the public via the media and other appropriate channels.

As part of its programme of dialogue with southern partners, the North-South Centre, at the instigation of, and in active conjunction with, the Portuguese Government, held an International Colloquy on Democracy and Human Rights in Lisbon from 22 to 24 April 1992. The proceedings were mainly based on experience of recent developments in French-speaking and Portuguese-speaking African countries. After the upheaval in East-West relations worldwide and a degree of progress towards democracy in Africa, the Lisbon Colloquy was an excellent opportunity for the resumption of dialogue between African and European partners and the discussion of future co-operation with a view to the strengthening of the principles of the active protection of human rights, pluralist democracy and the rule of law, as factors essential to sustainable development. Participants from 18 African countries took part in the proceedings of the Colloquy. The plenary sitting debate on the relationship between democracy and respect for human rights was introduced by the Portuguese State Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Co-operation, Mr J M Durao Barroso, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe and the Mozambique Minister of Justice, Mr M A Dauto.

The practical recommendations drawn up by the working parties (standards and values - legal protection safeguards - the enforcement of the law) were examined, amended and approved at the plenary sitting on 24 April, at which the Portuguese State Under-Secretary for Justice gave an address closing the Colloquy.

During his exchange of views with the Ministers' Deputies on co-operation between the Council of Europe and the European Community on 11 March 1992, the Secretary General of the Commission of the European Communities expressed great satisfaction with the activities of the North-South Centre and confirmed that the Commission would continue, in 1992, to part-finance many projects carried out by the Centre in the context of its programme of activities. This follows up the European Parliament vote in favour of a budgetary contribution from the Community to the activities of the North-South Centre.

7. European Commission for Democracy through Law25

Slovenia obtained associate member status and the Holy See observer status.

Over the period concerned, the Commission continued its exchanges of views on the constitutional reforms in Central and East European countries, in the presence of representatives of the countries involved.

During its meeting in February 1992, the Commission also held preliminary exchanges of views with the Presidents of the Constitutional Committees of Latvia and Lithuania.

The Task Force on constitutional reforms examined the draft Constitution of the Russian Federation, at the request of the Constitutional Committee of the Supreme Soviet.

The Commission also continued preparatory work on creating a documentation centre on constitutional case law, which will hold the major decisions of the constitutional and supreme courts of Europe, Canada and the United States of America.

Lastly, the Bureau of the Commission established the concrete modalities for the implementation of a series of University Seminars on Democracy (UNIDEM), to be organised with the collaboration of Central and East European Universities, on topics relating to the implementation of the new constitutions. The medium-term aim of UNIDEM is to strengthen democratic awareness in future generations of lawyers and political scientists, thanks to the multiplying effect of Universities.

8. European Youth Card26

The Co-ordinating Board of the Partial Agreement on the Youth Card met on 20 March.

The Board had an extensive discussion on the contents and lay-out of the information material to be addressed to major decision-makers.

The Board had an exchange of views on the proposed development of the Youth Card into a service card. This work will be carried out in liaison with experts involved in the Greater Europe project on International Youth Mobility (Project V.l). Substantial guarantees could be offered to the countries who receive young persons involved in mobility because there would be proof, due to the card, that they are covered by a minimum protection against major risks such as emergency medical care, accidents, civil liability, repatriation, legal advice and so on.

The Board had an exchange of views concerning the proposed study mission to Hungary, Poland and the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic. The main objective of the mission will be to advise the future responsible instances of the Youth Card system in the respective countries.

9. Open Partial Agreement on the Prevention of, Protection Against, and Organisation of Relief in Major Natural and Technological Disasters27

1. Research and training activities implemented by the network of specialised European centres

The directors and presidents of the specialised European centres of the Agreement met from 21 to 23 January 1992 in Strasbourg to finalise their programme of activities for 1992 and 1993.

The Permanent Correspondents met from 24 to 25 March 1992 at the European Space Agency in Paris. They approved the programme of activities presented by the centres for 1993 as well as the holding of audits of the centres. In 1992 audits of the Ravello Centre and Luxembourg Centre will be carried out. They took note of the developments of the various activities under the Agreement.

2. Assistance and co-operation activities in case of disaster, in particular by using the European warning system

For the earthquakes that took place on 13 and 15 March 1992 in Erzincan in Turkey, the warning system was brought into operation and two teleconferences were organised.

The triggering of the warning system for the events in Erzincan highlighted:

. the importance of the capacity of member States and international organisations to co-ordinate quickly to provide more effective aid to the country concerned;

. the problems of the countries affected, to ensure proper co-ordination;

. the importance of the co-operation with UNDRO, thus linking the activities under the Agreement with the United Nations emergency system. UNDRO has moreover officially applied to join the Agreement.

3. Specific programmes

Draft Programme SIEAD/APO/TCHERNOBYL (System of epidemiological information and assistance in medical decision-making) following the Tchernobyl nuclear accident.

. The Executive Secretary, at the request of the WHO's Director General, visited Minsk, Kiev, Obninsk and Moscow (18-22 February 1992) as part of a WHO mission;

. The WHO IPHECA programme has been re-examined and its links with other international initiatives have been examined, particularly those with the Partial Agreement (meeting from 23 to 26 March 1992 in Geneva);

. The various member countries have confirmed their agreement to participate in the SIEAD/APO/TCHERNOBYL programme;

The programme could be brought into operation as soon as the Committee of Ministers has given its approval, at the level of the member States of the Open Partial Agreement.

V. STANDING CONFERENCE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES IN EUROPE (CLRAE)

1. International Conference "Europe 1992-2000": European Municipalities and Democracy - The exclusion of poverty through citizenship

(Charleroi, 5-7 February 1992)

How can citizenship exclude severe poverty and bring the historical and socio-economic processes which create it under control?

This was the question posed by the representatives of approximately a hundred European towns and municipalities, delegates of associations representing disadvantaged European social groups, experts and European citizens who participated in the conference in Charleroi, Belgium (5-7 February 1992) and adopted the "Charleroi Declaration".

The declaration recommends that a new common policy for combating poverty be defined and put into practice by associating disadvantaged sections of the population with municipal policies. It lays down the following principles:

- freedom of speech and expression

- a genuine community life

- the adoption of comprehensive plans for combating severe poverty, which implies that the policy of managing situations will be replaced by emergency and preventive measures.

The participants recommended that other regional/national authorities recognise the vital role of towns; determine, in consultation with towns and municipalities, the conditions necessary for their policies to succeed; and determine the involvement required at European level.

The participants also recommended that the CLRAE carry out a follow-up: launch of an "Exemplary European Town" project, creation of a network of towns, extension of exchanges of experience to include housing, health care and education and the creation of a mixed action and co-ordination group.

2. Standing Committee of the CLRAE

(Strasbourg, 17-18 February 1992)

The Standing Committee adopted, on behalf of the Conference, two Resolutions:

- Resolution 229 on the third Conference of Island Regions

- Resolution 230 on the fifth Conference of European Border

Regions.

These Resolutions are submitted to the Parliamentary Assembly for opinion and to the Committee of Ministers for decision.

On the basis of Article 2 bis (b) of the Charter of the Standing Conference, the Standing Committee granted observer status to the Standing Conference of Towns of Slovenia28.

3. 27th Session of the Standing Conference of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe (CLRAE)

(Strasbourg, 17-19 March 1992)

The CLRAE elected Mr B. Mollstedt (Sweden) as President, and MM. Sergent (France), G. Demzsky (Hungary), J. Hofmann (Germany) and A. Tchernoff (Netherlands) as Vice-Presidents.

The CLRAE adopted nine Resolutions :

Resolution 231 on amending the Charter and Rules of Procedure

Resolution 232 on autonomy, minorities, nationalism and European union

Resolution 233 on the implementation of the European Charter of Local Self-Government

Resolution 234 on the European Urban Charter

Resolution 235 on the topical issues concerning local and regional authorities

Resolution 236 on a new municipal policy for multicultural integration in Europe and the Frankfurt Declaration

Resolution 237 on the Charter on the Participation of Young People in Municipal and Regional Life

Resolution 238 on regional planning and the protection of water resources

Resolution 239 on the quantity and quality of drinking water in Europe: the role of local authorities.

These Resolutions are submitted to the Parliamentary Assembly for an opinion and to the Committee of Ministers for decision.

4. European Disaster Relief Fund

In the wake of the Kozlu mining disaster (Turkey) at the beginning of March 1992, the Committee of Ministers decided, on a proposal of the Bureau of the CLRAE, to grant the sum of 50 000 FF to the families of the victims.

Another sum of 50 000 FF was also granted, at the end of March, to the victims of the earthquake in Erzincan (Turkey).

5. Fourth Seminar of European Training Centres for Local and Regional Authorities Staff

(Genoa, 16-17 April 1992)

This meeting was attended by some 100 representatives of training institutions coming from 22 European States. In addition to member States of the Council of Europe, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Russian Federation were represented at the meeting; Israel also took part.

The meeting itself was divided into two parts. The first was devoted to the theme: "Advanced information technologies: the impact on training". The pros and cons of different training technologies and methodologies were assessed on the basis of case studies.

A presentation and a general discussion concerning the project of the creation of a European Training Academy for Local and Regional Authorities Staff occupied the second part of the meeting. The conclusions of the discussion will be included in a report to be prepared during the summer and submitted to the Standing Committee for adoption.

6. Municipal elections in Romania, 9 and 23 February 1992

The CLRAE appointed a delegation to observe the municipal elections in Romania, following an invitation extended by the Romanian Government.

The delegation had the opportunity to meet and discuss openly with leaders of the main government and opposition political parties or groups contesting the elections; to visit over 50 polling stations on the day of the elections, 9 February; and to hold direct, detailed and informal discussions with members of local electoral committees, candidates for the positions of mayor and municipal councillors in the various constituencies and with a considerable number of voters.

The overall assessment of the CLRAE delegation of the elections was that the undoubted problems in some aspects of the elections - for example, ambiguities in some aspects of the electoral law, giving rise to contestation and misinterpretation; deficiencies in the electoral lists - were not likely to affect the overall outcome of the elections and were due principally to inexperience and administrative difficulties, rather than to deliberate malpractice.

The delegation considered that the elections were open, well-organised, as fair as possible, incorporating reasonable safeguards against fraud and constituting a significant step forward in the democratic process under way in Romanian society.

The full report of the mission has been sent to the Committee of Ministers and the Parliamentary Assembly.

VI. CONFERENCES OF SPECIALISED MINISTERS

A. CONFERENCES HELD FROM 15 JANUARY TO 1 MAY 1992

3rd European Conference of Ministers responsible for the Cultural Heritage (Malta, 16-17 January 1992)

The third European Conference of Ministers responsible for the Cultural Heritage was organised in Malta on 16-17 January 1992. 33 countries participated in the Conference: 29 States Party to the European Cultural Convention and other States invited as decided by the Committee of Ministers (Albania, Canada, Latvia, United States of America).

On this occasion, the European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage, which creates an institutional framework for European co-operation in this field, was opened for signature. The Ministers asked the Committee of Ministers to invite the Council for Cultural Co-operation (CDCC) to carry out, even before the entry into force of the Convention, a "European plan for archaeology" managed by its Cultural Heritage Committee and comprising a number of pilot activities, such as the launching of a campaign to raise public awareness of the value of the archaeological heritage ("Bronze-Age" campaign), the establishment of European professional networks or the publication of a European urban archaeology handbook.

At the Conference, emphasis was placed on the need to find a complementary approach and achieve institutional co-operation between the international organisations working in the heritage field in order to co-ordinate:

- activities pursued by the Council of Europe with those envisaged in the context of the CSCE process, particularly with a view to enabling CSCE members which are not signatories to the European Cultural Convention to take part in some Council of Europe cultural heritage programmes;

- programmes of the Council for Cultural Co-operation (CDCC) and the Cultural Heritage Committee (CC-PAT) with those of the Commission of the European Communities and UNESCO.

Possibilities along the lines of those evoked in Resolution No. 2 of the Conference on this issue were included in the Council of Europe's contribution to the CSCE follow-up meeting (Helsinki 24 March -8 July 1992).

The Ministers also adopted a Resolution (No. 3) on the priorities of a Pan-European Cultural Heritage Project suggesting the CDCC and its Cultural Heritage Committee (CC-PAT) develop their work programme on the basis of four priorities:

- an anticipatory approach of conservation policies (setting the integrated conservation of the heritage within the context of transsectoral policies for the physical and human environment);

- technical co-operation to meet the urgent needs of "Greater Europe";

- training and consciousness-raising;

- funding the conservation.

The follow-up to the Ministerial Conference was discussed by the CC-PAT at its meeting in March 1992 during the adoption of the 1992 programme and to the first exchange of views on the 1993 draft programme.

B. FORTHCOMING CONFERENCES

1992

13-15 May 1992 7th Conference of European Ministers

Rhodes responsible for Sport

Responsible body: Committee for the Development of Sport (CDDS)

Theme: The future of sport in Europe: Towards 2000

Sub-themes:

1. The ethics of sport

2. The framework of European sports co-operation

3. Sports development in Europe

20-21 May 1992 5th Conference of European Ministers

Castletroy Park responsible for Social Security

Limerick

Responsible body: Committee of Senior Officials

Theme: Social security policies and employment

Sub-themes:

1. Social security and the labour market

2. The contribution of social security systems

to employment policies (period 1985-91)

9-11 June 1992 18th Conference of European Ministers of

Nicosia, Cyprus Justice

Responsible bodies: European Committee on Legal Co-operation (CDCJ) and European Committee on Crime Problems (CDPC)

Themes: The strengthening of the State based on the rule of law:

- access to justice and to a fair trial

- criminal law aspects of the market economy

- the legislative process.

15-16 October 1992 7th Conference of European Ministers

<Blois>, France responsible for Cultural Affairs

Responsible body: Culture Committee

Themes:

"Reading, books and publishing in Europe"

Discussion of topical questions

1993

25-26 March 1993 3rd European Ministerial Conference on

Venice Equality between Women and Men

Responsible body: Steering Committee for Equality between Women and Men (CDEG)

Theme: Strategies for the elimination of violence against women in society: the media and other means

Sub-themes:

1. The causes of violence against women: the role of the media;

2. Legal and administrative measures to counter violence against women.

14-15 April 1993 4th Conference of European Ministers responsible

Vienna for Youth

Responsible body: European Steering Committee for intergovernmental co-operation in the Youth Field (CDEJ)

Theme: Young people in Greater Europe

- values and life-styles of young people;

- local and regional policies in Europe and participation by young people.

<2-3 June> 1993 18th Session of the Standing Conference of

Madrid European Ministers of Education

Responsible body: Education Committee

Theme: Building the new Europe: Democratic values, education and mobility

15-16 September 1993 10th Conference of European Ministers responsible Netherlands for Local Government

Responsible body: Steering Committee on Local and Regional Authorities (CDLR)

Themes:

- Major cities and their suburbs

- Local referendums

<October> 1993 5th Conference of European Ministers of Labour

Valletta, Malta

Responsible body: Steering Committee for Employment and Labour (CDEM) and its Bureau

<General theme: Employment trends in Europe - Future prospects

Specific themes:

1. Labour market consequences of population trends in Europe

2. Vocational integration and reintegration of individuals into the labour market and their consequences on structural change, productivity and growth>

<13-15 October> 1993 XXIIIrd Session of the Conference of European

France Ministers responsible for Family Affairs

Responsible body: Committee of Liaison Officials (MMF-HF)

Theme: to be defined

1993-1994 5th Conference of European Ministers responsible Greece for Migration Affairs

Responsible body: European Committee on Migration (CDMG)

Theme: to be defined.

<1993-1994> 7th European Ministerial Conference on the

Liechtenstein Environment

Responsible body: Steering Committee for the Conservation and Management of the Environment and Natural Habitats (CDPE)

Themes:

- soil protection

- the ecological balance of rural areas (provisional)

1994

1994 10th Session of the European Conference of

Norway Ministers responsible for Regional Planning

Responsible body: Committee of Senior Officials of the CEMAT.

Theme: Strategies for sustainable regional/spatial development in Europe beyond the year 2000.

1994, second half 4th European Ministerial Conference on Mass

Prague Media Policy

Responsible body: Steering Committee on the Mass Media (CDMM)

Theme: to be defined

1 ¹ The text of the Declaration appears in the Addendum to the present report.

2 ² The text of this Resolution appears the Addendum to the present report.

3 ³ See also under III. Field I below: Democracy, freedom and the fundamental rights of human beings.

4 ⁴ Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Italy, Malta and Spain; reference period 1989-1990

5 ⁵ Denmark, Greece, Iceland, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden and United Kingdom; reference period 1988-1989

6 ⁶ Signatory States: Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, United Kingdom

Contracting States: Norway, Sweden

7 ⁷ The Convention was opened for signature on 26 November 1987 and entered into force on 1 February 1989. To date, the Convention has been ratified by twenty-three member States of the Council of Europe: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

8 ⁸ The text of the Recommendation appears in the Addendum to the present Report.

9 ⁹ See part VI.A of the present report.

10 ¹⁰ See part VI.B of the present report.

11 ¹¹ See part VI.B of the present report.

12 ¹² The text of the Resolution appears in the Addendum to the present report.

13 ¹³ The text of the Recommendation appears in the Addendum to the present report.

14 ¹⁴ The text of this Recommendation appears in the Addendum to the present report.

15 ¹⁵ The text of this Recommendation appears in the Addendum to the present report.

16 ¹⁶ The text of this Resolution appears in the Addendum to the present report.

17 ^{17 17} Concerns the following States: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, United Kingdom. Austria, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Portugal. Spain and Switzerland also participate in the activities of the Partial Agreement.

18 ^{18 18} The text of the Recommendation appears in the Addendum to the present report.

19 ^{19 19} Concerns the following States: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom.

20 ^{20 20} Concerns the following States: Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the Holy See.

21 ^{21 21} Concerns the following States: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom.

22 ^{22 22} Concerns the following States: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.

23 ^{23 23} The text of this Resolution appears in the Addendum to the present report.

24 ^{24 24} The following States are members of the North-South Centre, which has its headquarters in Lisbon: Cyprus, Finland, France, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.

25 ²⁵ Concerns the following States: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey. Associate members: Albania, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, Russia and Slovenia. Observers: Canada, Holy See and USA.

26 ^{26 26} Concerns the following States: France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

27 ²⁷₂₇ Member countries of the Agreement: Algeria, Belgium, France, Greece, italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Turkey and Russia. The Commission of the European Communities, the WHO Regional Office for Europe in Copenhagen and UNESCO all participate in the activities of the Agreement.

28 ^{28 28} Observer status has already been granted to associations of local and regional authorities of Israel, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia and the Russian Federation.