Alain Berset Discusses European Council Priorities in La Matinale Interview
Table of Contents
Alain Berset, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, appeared on the Swiss program La Matinale on August 18, 2025, to discuss the council’s current priorities and challenges.The 17-minute interview covered a range of topics, including the future of European cooperation and the role of major global powers. Berset emphasized the importance of a multilateral approach to international relations, cautioning against a world dominated by power-sharing agreements between large nations. https://www.rts.ch/linvite-e-de-la-matinale/video/linvite-de-la-matinale-invite-alain-berset-secretaire-general-du-conseil-deurope?urn=urn:rts:video:4fb758be-90eb-34ae-b269-7ac3638e2289
The Council of Europe’s Role in 2025
The Council of Europe is an international organization founded in 1949 with the aim of upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Europe.It differs from the European Union; the Council of Europe’s membership includes 46 countries, encompassing nearly all European states, while the EU is a political and economic union of 27 member states.https://www.coe.int/en/web/about
Berset’s appearance on La Matinale provided insight into the Council’s ongoing work in a complex geopolitical landscape. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to defending democratic values in the face of rising authoritarianism and addressing pressing human rights concerns across the continent.
Concerns About Great Power Dynamics
During the interview, Berset expressed reservations about a world order based on agreements between major powers. He argued that such an arrangement could marginalize smaller nations and undermine the principles of international cooperation. According to reporting by RTS, Berset stated, “We don’t want a world where the great powers share things,” suggesting a preference for a more inclusive and equitable system. https://www.rts.ch/info/suisse/alain-berset-nous-ne-voulons-pas-d-un-monde-ou-les-grandes-puissances-se-partagent-les-choses-14149122
This statement reflects a broader concern within the Council of europe about maintaining a rules-based international order and preventing the erosion of multilateral institutions.
Key takeaways from the Interview
Commitment to Human rights: The Council of Europe remains dedicated to protecting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across Europe.
multilateralism is Crucial: Berset emphasized the importance of international cooperation and the need to avoid a world dominated by power-sharing agreements between major nations.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges: The Council is actively working to address contemporary challenges such as rising authoritarianism and human rights violations.
Looking Ahead:
Alain Berset’s insights from La Matinale underscore the Council of Europe’s continued relevance in navigating the complexities of the 21st century. The organization’s commitment to upholding essential values and promoting international cooperation will be crucial in addressing the challenges facing Europe and the world in the years to come.
Sources:
RTS – L’invité de la Matinale: [https://www.rts.ch/linvite-e-de-la-matinale/video/linvite-de-la-matinale-invite-alain-berset-secretaire-general-du-conseil-deurope?urn=urn:rts:video:4fb758be-90eb-34ae-b269-7ac3638e2289](https://www.rts.ch/linvite-e-de-la-matinale/video