Europe Explained

In this episode we explore the vitally important role played by local and regional authorities in the Council of Europe’s 46 member states, and how the organisation is helping to improve the quality of local democracy in Europe. Our guest expert is Mathieu Mori, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe’s Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, who guides us through the challenges currently facing local democracy on our continent, including the war in Ukraine and the aftermath of the Covid pandemic, which in some places has led to the re-centralisation of powers previously exercised by local authorities.

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Dans cet épisode, nous examinons les dangers et les opportunités présentés par les énormes quantités de données qui sont constamment collectées sur chacun d'entre nous, à la fois par le secteur privé et par les acteurs étatiques. Notre expert invité est Emmanuel Netter, professeur de droit privé à l'Université de Strasbourg, qui nous guide à travers les risques et les avantages potentiels de la collecte de données.

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In this episode we examine the current state of history teaching in Europe, with the help of three international experts who came to Strasbourg to attend a conference organised by the Council of Europe’s Observatory on History Teaching in Europe (OHTE). Frances Moss from Ireland, Ann-Laure Liéval from France and Luke Gauci from Malta gave us their insights into why history teaching is so important for democracy, and why we should combat attempts to manipulate it for political ends. 

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In this episode, Cathie Burton investigates the Council of Europe’s Intercultural Cities programme. Discover how cities like Vaasa in Finland implement innovative policies to foster intercultural dialogue and social cohesion and encourage their society to embrace cultural diversity to build a stronger community. Join us to learn how this city, and many others, are setting examples for the world in creating inclusive environments.

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In this episode, Villano Qiriazi, Head of the Council of Europe’s Department of Education, presents the goals and planned activities of the upcoming European Year of Digital Citizenship Education, 2025. Find out how together we can build an inclusive and democratic digital future. 

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In this episode Alun Drake explores the intersection of music, culture, and European unity alongside a special guest. The episode celebrates the 20th anniversary of a unique reinterpretation of Beethoven's Ode to Joy, otherwise known as the European Anthem. The artist behind this groundbreaking remix, Flo-M, a Hip Hop musician from Freiburg, Germany, reflects on his 2004 rendition that fused classical music with contemporary genres. The conversation explores Flo-M’s creative process, the cultural impact of his work, and the relevance of the European Anthem today. To mark the anniversary, Flo-M has updated his track with a fresh remix, featuring new musical elements and adjusted lyrics. This lively exchange delves into the enduring legacy of Europe’s cultural and democratic values, as expressed through the power of music.

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In this episode, Alun Drake delves into the challenges and realities of Europe’s prison systems alongside Therese Rytter, 2nd Vice-President of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT), and Hugh Chetwynd, its Executive Secretary. Together, they examine the key challenges facing Europe’s prisons today, highlight the vital role of the CPT in the prevention of torture and ill-treatment, and explore the best practices for improving the living conditions in prison.

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In this episode of the podcast, Cathie Burton discusses the challenges and danger journalists must face just while trying to do their job. Journalists Klemens Kohler, Clemens Lotze and Michael Krell share their experiences.  

#JournalistsMatter, the Council of Europe Campaign for the Safety of Journalists is an initiative aiming to promote press freedom and protect journalists from violence, threats, and harassment while performing their duties.

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In this episode, we celebrate the European Heritage Days, a unique event that opens doors to Europe’s cultural and historical landmarks. From Sweden to Cyprus, these days offer access to hidden gems that are usually closed to the public, thereby showcasing Europe’s rich and diverse heritage.

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In this episode, Cathie Burton delves into the Bern Convention, a key agreement for the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats in Europe. Follow her on this journey and learn how this convention has been safeguarding biodiversity consistently since 1979, amidst modern challenges.

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