The Council of Europe opened a meeting this Tuesday, a macro organization somewhat detached from the broader international agenda. It marks the fourth summit in its 70-year history, with Iceland hosting and Ukraine acting as a catalyst for renewed effort.
The Reykjavik focus centers on recording war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine and the demand for accountability as a prerequisite for peace, stated at a press conference by the European Commission president alongside the Icelandic prime minister upon arrival in Reykjavik.
This goal, while ambitious and broad, aligns with the core purpose of the Council of Europe: to defend human rights, promote democracy, and condemn states that violate them. The organization’s measures and penalties do not always compel compliance from member states, including Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Documenting Russian war crimes remains a future priority for the Council, acknowledging both the victims and the necessity of accountability in line with Icelandic objectives for the organization’s mission.
strategic country
Before the leaders arrived, the Council’s Secretary General described holding Russia to account for the harm caused by occupation as essential.
The Council of Europe had not convened a summit of its leaders for almost two decades—the last gathering was in Warsaw in 2005. It now brings together the heads of the 46 member states of the European family, including EU partners, or their high-level representatives, such as Spain’s foreign minister. Russia was excluded last year following the invasion, which the Council condemned as an act of aggression.
Holding this summit in Iceland adds a layer of significance. Iceland is a NATO member but not an EU member, providing a unique context. Geographically the country is at the far edge of Europe, yet it holds strategic importance in politics, energy, and economics. It is a focal point in the Arctic region, attracting attention from major players including the United States and China, as well as Ukraine’s efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
G7 Introduction
Key figures attended the Reykjavik meeting, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. These leaders intersect with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent European tour, highlighting the ongoing dialogue with Kyiv.
There is a sense of preface to the discussions. The G7, gathering seven major economies—America, Canada, Britain, France, Italy, Germany, and Japan carrying the presidency—meets in Hiroshima this week to address shared concerns and coordinate policies in the face of rising global tensions and evolving geopolitical dynamics.