PACE spring session kicks off today
Debates on mass surveillance and the need to uphold human rights and international law in connection with use of drones and targeted killings will be among the highlights of the PACE spring session that will be held on April 20-24 in Strasbourg, the Council of Europe’s official website reports.
The Assembly will debate the reconsideration of sanctions in respect of the Russian delegation to the Assembly, the humanitarian consequences of the actions of the terrorist group known as "Islamic State" and discrimination against transgender people in Europe.
It will also focus on legislation and practice concerning the removal of children from their families in member states, and post-monitoring dialogue with Monaco.
A current affairs debate on "The political and security situation in Ukraine and its implications" has been requested. His Majesty the King of the Belgians will give an address (April 21). Didier Reynders, Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Affairs of Belgium, will present the communication from the Committee of Ministers in the framework of the Belgian Chairmanship and Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muižnieks will present his annual activity report for 2014.