Monaco has handed over the presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers to Montenegro, concluding six months in which the Principality played a leading diplomatic role on issues ranging from the war in Ukraine to financial crime and the protection of children.
The handover took place in Strasbourg on Tuesday 10th November, with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Isabelle Berro-Amadeï presenting the results of Monaco’s first presidency since joining the organisation in 2004.
For one of Europe’s smallest states, the six-month term offered an unusually prominent role in shaping discussions among the Council’s 46 member countries.
Ukraine, financial crime and European security
Support for Ukraine was a central priority, with Monaco helping advance discussions on international mechanisms to compensate victims of Russia’s invasion. Berro-Amadeï also travelled to Kyiv in September, becoming the first senior Monegasque official to visit since the full-scale invasion began.
The presidency coincided with the opening for signature of a new protocol strengthening international cooperation against money laundering and terrorist financing. Monaco was among the first countries to sign.
Other initiatives addressed cybercrime and foreign disinformation, including the establishment of a European expert committee to examine interference in democratic processes.
From children’s safety to Prince Albert’s address
Monaco also placed the protection of young people on the European agenda, hosting a ministerial conference on safer sport for children on 3rd and 4th November.
Prince Albert II addressed the Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly in Strasbourg in October, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and the rule of law amid growing geopolitical tensions.
The presidency concluded with discussions on youth and disinformation, bringing together journalists, researchers and students.
What happens next?
While several initiatives advanced during Monaco’s presidency, others remain unfinished, including the proposed compensation system for Ukraine.
The achievements also reflect decisions taken collectively by Council of Europe member states rather than Monaco acting alone.
Nevertheless, the presidency gave the Principality an opportunity to exercise diplomatic influence well beyond its geographical size.
Montenegro will now chair the Committee of Ministers until May 2027, taking forward several of the initiatives developed during Monaco’s term.
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