The award was presented during the opening event of the German Judges and Prosecutors’ Conference in Weimar.

Media release from The German Judges Association (DRB):

The German Judges Association (DRB) awarded its Human Rights Prize to Miguel Ángel Gálvez of Guatemala. The award was presented during the opening event of the German Judges and Prosecutors’ Conference in Weimar.

In his speech, DRB Chairman Achim Scholz emphasized the award's special significance: It honors individuals from the judiciary and legal professions who have dedicated themselves to upholding the principles of the rule of law "at the risk of their lives, health, or personal freedom, or by accepting serious personal disadvantages." Scholz noted that the international attention generated by the award ceremony also serves to protect the recipients in their home countries. Scholz added that freedom and democracy are not guaranteed, but they are worth fighting for.

By honoring Gálvez, the DRB recognizes a judge who has dedicated decades to combating corruption and impunity in Guatemala. Since taking office in 1999, Gálvez has played a central role in addressing serious human rights violations. As presiding judge of a criminal court that handled high-risk cases, he oversaw numerous complex trials involving organized crime and state corruption.

"Miguel Ángel Gálvez Aguilar is one of the most important symbols of justice in Guatemala," said Iván Velásquez Gómez, the former Colombian Minister of Defense and recipient of the 2012 DRB Human Rights Award, in his speech honoring this year's award winner. Gálvez embodies the fight against corruption and enjoys the respect and esteem of his people. Velásquez sees the award ceremony as a message of hope for a new beginning, symbolized by the return of exiled judges and the restoration of democracy and the rule of law. Referring to Guatemala as the land of eternal spring, Velásquez concluded with the wish, “May Guatemala blossom.”

Gálvez expressed his gratitude for the award, saying that it also sends a message to judges around the world: “The defense of an independent judiciary must be resolute and combative while always respecting the law.” He dedicated the prize to his colleagues in Guatemala and Central America who, like him, live in exile for defending judicial independence. Addressing his homeland, he said: "Guatemala does not need a judiciary that adapts to political circumstances. It needs an incorruptible, professionally competent judiciary that is deeply aware of the nation’s diversity."

Gálvez gained international recognition for his role in the legal investigation of crimes committed by former military dictator Efraín Ríos Montt. He played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the historic genocide trial that, in 2013, resulted in the first conviction of a former head of state in his own country.

Gálvez also set standards in the fight against corruption at the highest political levels. In the La Línea scandal, for example, he ordered the arrest of President Otto Pérez Molina and Vice President Roxana Baldetti in 2015. The investigation uncovered a widespread network of corruption and abuse of power.

However, Gálvez's commitment made him a target of massive repression. He was threatened, defamed, and subjected to political pressure. Despite international calls for his protection, Gálvez was forced to resign from office in 2022.

The German Judges Association has presented the Human Rights Award since 1991.

for more: https://www.drb.de/miguel-angel-galvez

The German Judges Association: drb.de

Photo: ©Miguel Ángel Gálvez

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Deutsche Richterbund (DRB)

Miguel Ángel Gálvez

Among the recipients are actor Ncuti Gatwa; broadcast journalist Sarah Smith; musician, author and filmmaker Stuart Murdoch; and the Advocate General for Scotland, Baroness Catherine Smith.

Media release from University of Glasgow:

The University of Glasgow will award honorary degrees to individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions in the fields of arts, politics, science and humanities.

The awards will be conferred at a special Commemoration Day ceremony on Wednesday 17 June, which this year also marks the 575th anniversary of the University’s foundation in 1451.

Among the recipients are actor Ncuti Gatwa; broadcast journalist Sarah Smith; musician, author and filmmaker Stuart Murdoch; and the Advocate General for Scotland, Baroness Catherine Smith.

Honorary degrees will also be conferred at the University’s summer and winter graduation ceremonies, with recipients including musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader.

Professor Andy Schofield, Principal & Vice Chancellor, said:

“As we celebrate the University of Glasgow’s 575th anniversary, this year’s Commemoration Day is particularly meaningful. It allows us to reflect on our remarkable history and the generations of people who have shaped the University, while looking ahead to the contributions we will make in the years to come.

“Honorary degrees give us the opportunity to recognise individuals whose achievements have had a profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society. Their work embodies values that continue to inspire our community.

“I am delighted to welcome our honorary graduates into the University of Glasgow community at such a significant milestone, and to celebrate them alongside our graduating students.”

full list of recipients:

Commemoration Day 17 June 2026

Doctor of Letters (DLitt)

Professor Guido Tabellini, Intesa Sanpaolo Chair in Political Economics at Bocconi University, Milan

Doctor of Science (DSc)

Dr Stuart Campbell, FRCPEd, FRCOG, FACOG, Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King’s College, London

Doctor of Music (DMus)

Stuart Murdoch, Musician

Doctor of the University (DUniv)

Ncuti Gatwa, Actor

Jacqueline McLaren, Lord Provost of Glasgow

Baroness Catherine Smith, Barrister and Life Peer, House of Lords

Sarah Smith, BBC North America Editor

Summer 2026 Graduations – 23 June – 9 July

Doctor of Letters (DLitt)

Michael Clark, CBE, Choreographer and Dancer

Antonia Lloyd-Jones, Translator

Professor Michael Spence, Economist

Doctor of Science (DSc)

Professor Carole Mundell, Director of Science at the European Space Agency (ESA), Head of the European Space Astronomy Centre (ESAC), Madrid

Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, Physician and Cardiologist

Doctor of Music (DMus)

Janet Eveline Beat, Musician

Deacon Blue, Musicians

Doctor of Engineering (DEng)

Dr. Mallik Tatipamula, Chief Technology Officer, Ericsson, Silicon Valley

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVMS)

Dr. Melvyn James Pond, BVMS, MRCVS, DACVS, Veterinary Surgeon

Doctor of the University (DUniv)

Chris O’Shea, Chief Executive Officer, Centrica

Dr Adam Posen, CBE, President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics

Winter 2026 GraduationsDoctor of Letters (DLitt)

David Pratt, Journalist, Photographer, Broadcaster, Painter

Doctor of Science (DSc)

Professor Joachim von Braun, Professor of Economics and Technical ChangeCentre for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn

Doctor of Music (DMus)

Eddi Reader, MBE, Musician

University of Glasgow: gla.ac.uk

Photo: ©UG

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The mayor of Frankfurt am Main, Mike Josef, and Digital Minister Prof. Dr. Kristina Sinemus jointly opened the innovative center.

Media release from Hessian Ministry for Digitalization and Innovation:

With the TUMO learning center, a place is opening in Frankfurt that rethinks digital education: creative, practical and accessible to everyone.

The mayor of Frankfurt am Main, Mike Josef, and Digital Minister Prof. Dr. Kristina Sinemus jointly opened the innovative center, a strong signal for equal opportunities and the promotion of digital talent.

From the end of May, young people between 12 and 18 years old can explore topics such as robotics, game development or music production free of charge on 2,000 square meters and realize their ideas with state-of-the-art technology.

This flagship project was also made possible by enormous commitment: 3.5 million euros in donations secure its operation for the first three years.

A place where the future is shaped. A place that shows what is possible when education, technology and social commitment come together.

More information & registration: frankfurt.tumo.de

Hessian Ministry for Digitalization and Innovation: digitales.hessen.de

Photo: ©HMDI

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Hessian Ministry for Digitalization and Innovation

Digital Minister Prof. Dr. Kristina Sinemus

Mayor of Frankfurt am Main, Mike Josef

TUMO Learning Centre - Projekt owner & Team on Projekt

Kenan Poleo has been appointed as Director of the Office for Life Sciences from 1st May.

Media release from Department for Science, Innovation and Technology:

We're pleased to announce that Kenan Poleo has been appointed as Director of the Office for Life Sciences from 1st May.

As Director, Kenan will lead the cross-government delivery of the Life Sciences Sector Plan and support the innovation commitments in the 10 Year Health Plan - translating strategic ambitions into real-world impact by accelerating innovation into the NHS, unlocking investment, and driving regulatory reform.

Kenan will work in close collaboration with Office for Life Science’s Executive Chair Steve Bates OBE, with the two roles working in alignment to support the UK's thriving life sciences ecosystem and deliver on our ambition to be the third most important life sciences economy globally by 2035.

We look forward to everything Kenan will bring to this role. Welcome to the team.

Media release from Kenan Poleo:

It’s a genuine honour to be appointed Director of the Office for Life Sciences at such a pivotal moment for the UK, leading such a well-respected and impactful team. I intend to use my experience from working across the NHS, leading international science and innovation collaboration, and championing investment and UK exports globally to continue delivering UK life science strengths. From driving economic growth to accelerating access to innovation, all the while delivering for patients. I look forward to working with our Executive Chair, Ministers, industry, our expert partners and the NHS to deliver the Life Sciences Sector Plan, and support the modern Industrial Strategy and 10 Year Health Plan.

Read more:

gov.uk/government/people/kenan-poleo

Department for Science, Innovation and Technology:

gov.uk/department-for-science-innovation-and-technology

Photo: ©DSIT (Corrected!)

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Kenan Poleo

Department for Science, Innovation and Technology

Professor Liam Barry of the DCU School of Electronic Engineering has received 1.7 million euros in funding through the Research Ireland Infrastructure Programme.

Media release from DCU Faculty of Engineering and Computing:

Congratulations to Professor Liam Barry from DCU's School of Electronic Engineering who has received €1.7 million in funding through the Research Ireland Infrastructure Programme. Prof Liam Barry will lead the development of a Full Spectrum Communications Test Bed.

Today’s internet relies on a mix of radio waves and fiber optics, but as our data demands soar, these networks are hitting a 'speed limit' and consuming massive amounts of energy.

This new facility will allow researchers to test how light and ultra-high-frequency waves can work together to enable our communication networks to carry more data, more reliably, while significantly cutting the carbon footprint across all network segments including the world's data centres.

Professor Deborah O'Connell from the DCU Faculty of Science and Health also received significant funding through the programme to establish a platform for Atomic Layer Etching.

Read more here: dcu.ie/science-and-health/news

DCU Faculty of Engineering and Computing: dcu.ie/engineeringandcomputing

Photo: ©DCU-FEC

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Professor Liam Barry - Professor Deborah O'Connell

DCU Faculty of Engineering and Computing - DCU Faculty of Science and Health

Projekt owner & Team on Projekt

Domestic media companies deliver this content, but often receive little to no remuneration for the online use of their texts, photos and videos.

Media release from Austrian Federal Ministry of Justice:

Do you know who all profits (with) from news on the net?

"More players than you would expect at first glance".

Search engines (e.g. Google or Yahoo) and social media operators (e.g. Facebook, Instagram or X) use Austrian press content to generate reach, clicks and advertising revenue. Domestic media companies deliver this content, but often receive little to no remuneration for the online use of their texts, photos and videos – even though they put in the amount of work that others benefit from.

A separate ancillary copyright is intended to ensure that platforms pay for this use of press content. Instead of appearing individually, however, it makes sense for the media to bundle their rights in order to be on an equal footing with large tech companies.

From February 2026, the collecting society VG Newsmedia will take on exactly this task: it will represent the rights of press publishers in Austria and ensure that the use of journalistic content on the Internet is fairly remunerated. In his keynote speech at the official presentation of VG Newsmedia at the Concordia Press Club, the Berlin lawyer Prof. Dr. Thomas Höppner emphasized that the work of VG Newsmedia will not be an easy undertaking in view of the market power of Internet giants. Membership of VG Newsmedia is open to all publishing houses in Austria.

Austrian Federal Ministry of Justice: bmj.gv.at

Photo: ©BMJ

“All rights belong to BMJ - Bundesministerium für Justiz” (for this news)

An important step for the mobility turnaround and a strong business location. Faster connections, more capacity and climate-friendly mobility in the heart of Europe.

Media release from Peter Hanke, Federal Minister for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure:

From Vienna to Prague soon in just 2.5 hours!

Together with my Czech counterpart Ivan Bednárik, we signed a declaration of intent today in Vienna for the expansion of central rail connections.

Our goal: faster connections, more capacity and climate-friendly mobility in the heart of Europe. By 2040, we want to make Vienna-Prague possible in 2.5 hours and Vienna-Berlin in 4 hours.

An important step for the mobility turnaround and a strong business location.

I would like to thank Transport Minister Bednárik very much for his visit and I look forward to seeing you again!

Photo: © BMIMI/Holzer

Contribution: Team Hanke

“All rights belong to Peter Hanke” (for this news)

The Transport Security Act has reached a new stage: the decree of 30 March 2026 introduces new measures to prevent violence in transport and improve passenger safety.

Media release from Philippe TABAROT, Minister of Transport:

"On 30 March, an important step was taken in the implementation of the law on security in transport, which I initiated as a senator and had adopted once in the Government", said Minister of Transport, Philippe TABAROT.

Safer transport

The Transport Security Act has reached a new stage: the decree of 30 March 2026 introduces new measures to prevent violence in transport and improve passenger safety.

The means of action of security agents, including more than 4,000 Groupe SNCF and RATPgroup agents, are strengthened to enable them to intervene more quickly and effectively to combat new forms of insecurity.

for more: ecologie.gouv.fr

Photo: © MET (Corrected!)

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Philippe TABAROT, Minister of Transport

Ministry for Ecological Transition

One day, many impressions - get to know the work in a ministry and meet Science and European Affairs Minister Bettina Martin!

Media release from Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern:

We're taking part in Girls'Day!

Do you have or know any school children who would like to get a taste of a new career field?

On April 23rd, girls can:

-meet Minister Bettina Martin
-meet young female colleagues from the administration who will present their work
-get a taste of press work and create a social media post

Interested?

Then submit your application now at: ein-tag-viele-eindruecke

Girls'Day: girls-day.de

Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern:

regierung-mv.de/Landesregierung/wkm/

Photo: ©MV (Corrected!)

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Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Bettina Martin, Minister for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs

Girls'Day - Organization owner & Team on organizing

Press release of the Association of German Criminal Officers on the verdict in the case of the killing of the police officer Simon B. in Völklingen.

"The killing of Simon B. is shocking - the verdict is causing discussions. Between grief, incomprehension and legal reality, it becomes clear that criminal law is often more complex than it seems at first glance", said Association of German Criminal Officers in Press release.

Press release of the Association of German Criminal Officers on the verdict in the case of the killing of the police officer Simon B. in Völklingen.

Between Emotion, Law and Public Debate

The killing of our colleague Simon B. has caused concern nationwide. Many colleagues find the judgment of the Saarbrücken Regional Court to be difficult to understand. This is understandable, especially since a judgment in a case in which a police officer was killed in the exercise of his service can often only be legally classified if the written reasons for the judgment are available and a closer examination of the reasoning is possible.

At the same time, the public discussion shows again how quickly criminal decisions can get into pointed interpretations. The court has determined that the perpetrator shot the police officer. On the basis of a psychiatric expert opinion, however, it came to the conclusion that at the time of the crime there was an incapacity for guilt within the meaning of § 20 StGB. The decisive factor was a diagnosed serious mental illness, according to the previously known information a paranoid schizophrenia.

According to the findings of the court, the perpetrator was already significantly reduced in his culpability in the pre-fact, in particular in the case of robbery. For the subsequent killing, however, the court assumed that due to the illness-related impairment, there was complete incapacity for guilt. Accordingly, in this situation, the perpetrator was not in a position to see the wrong of the crime or to act according to this insight.

No penalty may be imposed in such cases. Instead, the court regularly orders accommodation in a psychiatric hospital in accordance with § 63 StGB. This accommodation is a measure of improvement and security. It is not for punishment, but for the protection of the general public from perpetrators, whose considerable dangerousness is based on a serious mental illness. Accommodation basically lasts as long as this dangerousness persists. It is therefore not limited in time from the outset and is regularly reviewed in court.

In the public debate, this differentiation is often presented in a nutshell. Terms such as “unpunished” or “murder without punishment” therefore fall short and can create a distorted picture of the actual legal consequences.

Comparisons with possible penalties also often lead to misunderstandings. For adolescents, the legal maximum of the juvenile sentence is basically ten years. If the act is murder and this maximum is not sufficient because of the particular seriousness of the guilt, the maximum measure can be up to 15 years.

The Federation of German Crime Officials considers an open and also critical discussion about judicial decisions to be legitimate. Criticism, however, should take into account the fundamental principles of criminal law. This includes in particular the separation between facts, criminal guilt and the measures of improvement and safeguarding.

On the other hand, the sometimes excessive reactions in the public debate are problematic. Threats against courts or personal attacks on judges exceed the limits of a discourse of the rule of law. Those who want to defend the rule of law should help to explain their functioning in an understandable way and not merely to reinforce emotions.

Our legal system provides for appeals for the review of judicial decisions. As far as is known, the public prosecutor's office has appealed. This procedure is used for the legal review of the judgment. The Federal Court of Justice examines exclusively whether there are legal errors; a new taking of evidence or own evaluation of the facts does not take place there.

The specific case also raises legal questions that can hardly be conclusively assessed without knowledge of the full reasons for the judgment and the taking of evidence. This applies in particular to the assessment of the culpability within the fact.

At the same time, the debate shows a structural problem: criminal decisions are often communicated in a technical language that is only limitedly understood outside the judiciary. Especially in cases like this, this can quickly lead to a tension between legal evaluation and social justice.

The BDK therefore advocates two things: a factual, rule-of-law-in-law criticism of judicial decisions and at the same time an understandable communication of criminal connections to the public. Especially in emotionally stressful cases, those who participate professionally in the public debate have a special responsibility.

Perhaps this is also a common task for all those who are professionally involved with criminal law, police and justice: not only to take a position, but to contribute to the fact that the rule of law remains explainable at such moments.

Despite all the legal classification, our sorrow for our colleague Simon B remains. Our thoughts are with his family and colleagues.

Press release on the ruling: bdk.de/der-bdk/was-wir-tun/aktuelles

Association of German Criminal Officers: bdk.de

Photo: ©BDK

“All rights belong to BDK - Bund Deutscher Kriminalbeamter” (for this news)

The nationwide ban on the sale of nitrous oxide cartridges came into effect on Sunday.

Media release from Senate Department for Science, Health and Care:

For more health protection in the capital!

On Sunday, the nationwide ban on the sale of nitrous oxide cartridges will come into force.

The new law prohibits the sale of nitrous oxide – both stationary and online or via vending machines – if the filling volume exceeds eight grams. In addition, the supply, purchase and possession of nitrous oxide to or by persons under the age of 18 is completely prohibited. Because: Consumption can entail considerable health risks.

We expressly welcome the ban. However, more education and prevention are also important.

Berlin's Senator for Health, Dr. Ina Czyborra, said:

"The ban on the sale of nitrous oxide is right and important. But legal restrictions alone are not enough. In order to prevent the abuse of nitrous oxide by children and adolescents, targeted, realistic prevention measures are also needed. Schools, youth centres or social media are important channels for educating people about the dangers of nitrous oxide consumption. Young people who are already consuming must be given low-threshold access to help and counselling services. In this way, warning signals can be detected at an early stage and tailor-made support can be guaranteed."

Info: berlin.de/sen/wgp/presse/2026/pressemitteilung

Senatsverwaltung für Wissenschaft, Gesundheit und Pflege: berlin.de/sen/wgp

Photo: ©sen/wgp (Corrected!)

“All rights belong to Senatsverwaltung für Wissenschaft, Gesundheit und Pflege” (for this news)

Under the title "Save the Rule of Law", the program includes high-profile panel discussions, forums and practical workshops.

Media release from Richterbund Hessen:

24th Day of Judges and Prosecutors, April 15-17 in Weimar.

Under the title "Save the Rule of Law", the program includes high-profile panel discussions, forums and practical workshops.

We at the Hessian Judges' Association look forward to stimulating encounters and new ideas. Who else is coming to the RiStATag Day?

Hashtag for 24th Day of Judges and Prosecutors: #RiStATag

24th Day of Judges and Prosecutors (RiStATag): rista-tag.de

Hessian Judges' Association: richterbund-hessen.de

Photo: ©Richterbund Hessen (Corrected!)

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Richterbund Hessen - RiStATag

The damage known so far amounts to approximately 4.8 million euros.

Media release from Bundeskriminalamt Österreich:

Uncovering an international VAT fraud: A blow against organized crime

In close cooperation, Criminal Intelligence Service (BK), the Federal Office for Fraud Prevention (BMF-ABB), and the Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office have dealt a significant blow to organized financial crime.

Extensive investigations have uncovered and substantially weakened an internationally widespread network of organized VAT fraud.

The known damages amount to approximately €4.8 million.

More information: bundeskriminalamt.at/news

Photo: ©BK

“All rights belong to Bundeskriminalamt Österreich” (for this news)

Young people born between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008 are eligible to apply. The application deadline is April 22, 2026 at 12:00 noon (Brussels time).

Media release from Representation of the State of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to the European Union:

The EU has launched a new application round for DiscoverEU. A total of around 40,000 travel passes will be awarded to 18-year-olds, of which almost 7,000 will go to Germany.

Young people born between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008 are eligible to apply. The application deadline is April 22, 2026 at 12:00 noon (Brussels time).

The program gives young Europeans the opportunity to travel around Europe for up to 30 days.

DiscoverEU is part of Erasmus+ and aims to strengthen exchange, mobility and the direct experience of Europe.

This sends a powerful message, especially to young people. Europe should not only be experienced politically, but also practically through encounters, travel, and exchanges across borders.

DiscoverEU - call for applications | Apply now: youth.europa.eu/discovereu_en

End of application: 22/04/2026 12:00 (CEST)

European Youth Portal: youth.europa.eu/home_en

Representation of the State of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to the European Union: europa-mv.de

European Youth Portal explained: What is DiscoverEU?

DiscoverEU is an action of the Erasmus+ programme that offers you the opportunity to travel and explore Europe’s diversity, learn about its cultural heritage and history, and connect with people from all over the continent.

You will be offered a travel pass to move with the most environment friendly means of transport, like trains. Other transport modes will be permitted in specific cases, for people living on islands or in remote areas.

You will also receive a DiscoverEU discount card for a wealth of discounts on accommodation, culture, sports, local transport, or other services.

Photo: ©European Youth Portal

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Representation of the State of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to the European Union

European Youth Portal

DiscoverEU

Nearly 300 delegates from 148 countries are in Lyon this week for INTERPOL’s 21st annual Heads of National Central Bureaus Conference.

The annual event plays an important role in international police cooperation, enabling senior law enforcement officials to meet face-to-face with counterparts worldwide to build relationships, exchange experiences and coordinate on cases.

Find out more: interpol.int/News-and-Events/News/2026/INTERPOL-Heads-of-NCBs

INTERPOL: interpol.int

INTERPOL President Lucas Philippe said:

“INTERPOL exists to serve 25 million police officers worldwide. The strength of the network rests on the contribution of every member country.

“Every NCB that strengthens its practices, shares more and fully uses the tools at its disposal advances the entire Organization.”

INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza said:

“In a global police network, a gap anywhere is a vulnerability everywhere. The strength of the network depends on the performance of every NCB.

“When governments cannot find common ground, NCBs find a way to share information, coordinate investigations and get the job done.

“Not because it is easy, but because it is necessary, and INTERPOL stands by their side, supporting their work, every day.”

Photo: ©INTERPOL

“All rights belong to INTERPOL” (for this news)

A judgment is not the end of the process. In many cases, it is only the beginning.

Once a judgment becomes final, responsibility shifts to its execution.

Media release from Human Rights and the Rule of Law at the Council of Europe:

What happens after the European Court of Human Rights delivers a judgment, and how does it lead to real change in practice?

A judgment is not the end of the process. In many cases, it is only the beginning.

Once a judgment becomes final, responsibility shifts to its execution.

This relies on a shared dynamic:

• Respondent States take the necessary measures to remedy the violation and prevent similar cases

• The Committee of Ministers supervises the execution of judgments

• The process is supported through dialogue, technical input, and continuous exchange with national authorities

In practice, execution involves:

• Individual measures to ensure redress for the applicant

• General measures to address the root causes of violations

• Ongoing co-operation to support implementation over time

Execution is ultimately the responsibility of each Member State. But at the same time, it is a process built on partnership, aimed at identifying practical and sustainable solutions.

The latest annual report highlights both progress and complexity. The 949 cases closed by the Committee of Ministers in 2025 reflect more than procedural steps. They represent concrete changes in law, policy and practice, with a direct impact on people’s lives.

At the same time, many cases, especially those involving structural challenges, require sustained efforts, coordination and long-term engagement. This is where implementation becomes critical: the real impact of a judgment depends on what changes in practice.

Explore the full report to better understand how judgments translate into change in practice:

coe.int/en/web/execution/annual-report-2025

Council of Europe: coe.int/en/web/portal/home

Photo: ©Council of Europe

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Human Rights and the Rule of Law at the Council of Europe | Council of Europe

APG network development plan until 2035: 9 billion euros for Austria's future – speed of network expansion is crucial.

Media release from Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism:

Affordable and readily available energy will determine the future of our location.

Anyone who wants to produce competitively needs electricity that is secure, clean, and affordable. That's precisely why the grid development plan up to 2035 is so crucial.

What it's about:

A massive expansion of our electricity grid throughout Austria.

Stronger east-west connections so that wind and solar power from the east and storage capacity from the west can work together optimally.

New lines and substations so that businesses can grow and invest.

We are investing around 9 billion euros in network infrastructure. This sends a strong signal for Austria as a business location.

For every euro invested, 93 cents of additional value is created in the country, and around 90,000 jobs are secured or created.

At the same time, demand is increasing noticeably:

-More electromobility
-More industrial electrification
-More data centers

The network is thus becoming a crucial factor for business location.

Ultimately, network access determines whether a company invests in Austria or elsewhere.

We need to speed things up; projects must not be bogged down in bureaucratic processes for years.

Those who invest in networks today secure prosperity, jobs, and competitiveness in Austria tomorrow.

for more: bmwet.gv.at/Presse

Photo: ©BMWET

“All rights belong to Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer” (for this news)

Students in Rostock have reason to celebrate – the Rostock-Wismar student association, with support from the state, has created 152 new dormitory places for them.

Media release from Bettina Martin, Minister for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs:

Students in Rostock have reason to celebrate – the Rostock-Wismar student association, with support from the state, has created 152 new dormitory places for them. We celebrated the opening today on Max-Planck-Straße. A beautiful, welcoming extension – perfect for the students!

When the second phase of construction is completed in two years, Rostock will have more than 800 dormitory places available. Affordable housing is so important for an attractive place to study.

After all, a successful course of study also depends on a good social environment. Rostock has a lot to offer in this regard – thanks in part to the excellent work of the Rostock-Wismar Student Union.

Science Minister Bettina Martin say: "Affordable rents are a location factor and a matter of social justice when it comes to access to higher education. Students depend on affordable rents in order to be able to study successfully."

Media release from Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern:

152 new dormitory places for the University of Rostock!

Today, the city and state, together with the Rostock-Wismar Student Union, opened a new student residence building.

This is the first phase of the new building extensions at the residential complex on Max-Planck-Straße. The second phase, scheduled for completion by 2028, will add another 126 places.

Approximately 30 million euros will be invested in the expansions. The state and federal governments are contributing around 16 million euros.

Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern: regierung-mv.de/Landesregierung/wkm/

Photo: ©MV

All rights belong to: (for this news)

-Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

-Bettina Martin, Minister for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs

Initial findings suggest that the forest fire was caused by a permitted controlled burn at a construction site.

Media release from the Graubünden Cantonal Police:

A forest fire broke out in Brusio on Tuesday afternoon. Several firefighting helicopters and firefighters are deployed to combat the flames. The RhB railway line is closed until further notice, and a rail replacement bus service is in operation.

The report of the forest fire, which covered an area of ​​approximately two square kilometers between Campascio and Viano, was received on Tuesday at 3:40 p.m. Firefighting operations resumed on Wednesday morning after several fire watches were established throughout the night. In addition to the Brusio fire department and the Graubünden cantonal police, five helicopters from Swisshelicopter and Heli Bernina, as well as a Super Puma helicopter from the Swiss Air Force, are involved in the operation.

Extraordinary airspace closure

To avoid hindering firefighting efforts, the Federal Office of Civil Aviation BAZL (FOCA) ordered an extraordinary airspace closure until Thursday evening. Due to the risk of rockfall, the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) had to be closed. The road to Viano, about 200 meters from the fire, is also currently closed. Residents can reach the valley via the forest road. As a precaution, the nearby power line was switched off overnight; Viano is being supplied with electricity via a generator.

Initial findings suggest that the forest fire was caused by a permitted controlled burn at a construction site. The Graubünden cantonal police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

Graubünden Cantonal Police: gr.ch

Press release from the Swiss Army:

The army is supporting the fire brigade operation in Brusio.

The Swiss Army is currently supporting the civilian authorities of the canton of Graubünden with firefighting efforts in Brusio. Two Super Puma helicopters from the Air Force are involved in the operation. Together with civilian helicopter companies, they are making a significant contribution to aerial firefighting.

This support operation is a striking example of the coordinated cooperation between civilian and military forces under difficult conditions.

The Swiss army is there when it is needed.

The Swiss army: armee.ch

Photo: © Schweizer Armee - Kantonspolizei Graubünden

“All rights belong to Schweizer Armee - Kantonspolizei Graubünden” (for this news)

In March, the Foreign Ministry opened its doors to students to teach them about the importance of diplomacy and international relations.

According to an announcement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Belgium:

In March, the Foreign Ministry opened its doors to students to teach them about the importance of diplomacy and international relations. We welcomed several student associations.

25 law students from ELSA attended a conference where our experts presented analyses on international law and strategic foresight.

L'UNYA Gand also visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a meeting entitled “Security and Military Dimensions: Protecting Peace, Security, and the Responsibility to Protect.” We exchanged views on peace projects, arms control, non-proliferation, and disarmament.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Belgium: diplomatie.belgium.be/en

Official information and services (Belgium.be): belgium.be/en

Photo: ©MFA

“All rights belong to Ministry of Foreign Affairs Belgium” (for this news)