Council of Europe Defends Human Rights Court Against Nine-State Migration Criticism

Nine European countries, led by Italy and Denmark, have called for a reconsideration of the European Court of Human Rights' (ECHR) interpretation of the European Convention on Human Rights, particularly in relation to the expulsion of foreign criminals. They argue that the court's rulings have overly constrained national governments' ability to deport individuals who commit crimes, protecting what they term the "wrong people." In response, Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe which oversees the ECHR, defended the court's independence, emphasizing that it is the legal arm of the Council of Europe and bound by a convention all member states have ratified. Berset warned against politicizing the court or using it as a political tool, stating that such actions risk undermining the rule of law and stability across Europe. While recognizing the complexity of migration challenges and the need for open debate, he stressed that fundamental rights protections must remain free from political pressure. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between national sovereignty and human rights obligations within the Council of Europe framework.