On 4 June 2025, Malta’s Presidency of the Committee of Ministers will co-organise the celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the Venice Commission in Strasbourg, highlighting its enduring contribution to upholding democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across Europe and beyond.
The event will be officially opened by Malta’s Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector, Hon. Dr Jonathan Attard, together with the Council of Europe Secretary General Mr Alain Berset and the President of the Venice Commission, Ms Claire Bazy Malaurie.
As part of the anniversary, an exhibition entitled A User’s Guide to the Rule of Law will be unveiled, featuring artwork by Maltese illustrator Ms Nadine Theuma. Her illustrations reimagine ‘Lady Justice’ not as a distant figure, but rather a modern force reflecting the mission of the Venice Commission. Each piece brings to life one of the Commission’s founding principles: legality, legal certainty, prevention of abuse of power, equality before the law, and non-discrimination. Combining accessible text and visual storytelling, the Guide aims to make the principles of the rule of law understandable to all. It underscores how these values are essential to protecting human dignity and freedoms, and how closely they are linked with democracy and human rights.
This celebration offers a moment to reflect on the Venice Commission’s legacy and look ahead to its continued impact in safeguarding democratic principles throughout Europe.
