STRASBOURG, 28 May 2025 — Malta officially launched its Presidency of the Council of Europe with a flag-raising ceremony in Place de la République, Strasbourg, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Hon. Ian Borg. The symbolic event marked the formal start of Malta’s six-month Presidency, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the country’s membership in the Organisation.
“Today’s flag-raising ceremony signifies a new chapter and a solemn pledge to uphold the values that unite us, championing the rights and dignity of all individuals,” remarked Hon. Borg. He emphasised that the Council of Europe must remain “a beacon of justice, accountability and democratic resilience” in light of the ongoing conflicts across the continent.
Earlier in the day, Hon. Borg convened the inaugural meeting of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies under Malta’s Presidency, where he unveiled the official programme and outlined the key priorities for the term. These priorities include protecting children, tackling violence and discrimination, empowering young people, and ensuring the preservation of democracy and the rule of law.
Since assuming the Presidency from Luxembourg on 14 May, Malta has already hosted several high-level events in Valletta, including the 12th European IDAHOT+ Forum and the third session of the ADI-SOGIESC Committee. These gatherings will contribute to an upcoming recommendation on the rights of intersex persons. Malta also welcomed the Standing Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.
This week, the Maltese Islands are hosting the 4th European Youth Work Convention, bringing together around 500 participants from across Europe to discuss and help shape the future of youth engagement and policy.
In Strasbourg, the Presidency collaborated with Ukraine to host its first official event: the launch of Ukraine is not Silent: Chronicles of Fighting Against War-Related Sexual Violence. Hon. Borg reiterated Malta’s continued support for Ukraine, underscoring the crucial need for justice and accountability in response to the Russian aggression.
On Wednesday evening, Malta’s Permanent Representation to the Council of Europe will inaugurate the cultural programme of the Presidency with a celebration showcasing Maltese music, theatre and poetry at the historic Palais Universitaire.
Malta’s Presidency will extend through November 2025, reflecting a strong commitment to multilateralism and the core principles of the Council of Europe: human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
