The Permanent Representations of the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic jointly organised a ceremony, which opened with a piano performance featuring the Czech national anthem, the Slovak national anthem, and the European anthem – Ode to Joy.

Following the musical introduction, a joint address was delivered by Ambassador Kristýna Najmanová (Czech Republic) and Ambassador Oľga Algayerová (Slovak Republic). In their address, they emphasized the importance of democratic values and principles that underpinned the decision of the then federation to become part of the Council of Europe. They also recalled the key moments that shaped the country’s path to membership.

Afterwards, Deputy Secretary General Bjørn Berge addressed the audience on behalf of the Council of Europe. He reflected on the pivotal events of 1989, which paved the way for the country’s democratic transformation. He also expressed appreciation for the fact that, after the dissolution of the federation, both successor states rejoined the Organization, honoured their commitments, and remain active members to this day.

Guests at the event also had the chance to explore an exhibition of newspaper articles and archival documents dating back to the time of the accession.

The CSFR joined the Council of Europe on 21 February 1991 during an extraordinary meeting of the Committee of Ministers in Madrid, becoming its 25th member. After Hungary, the CSFR became only the second country from the former Soviet bloc to join the Organization. The main figures advocating for accession were then-President Václav Havel and Deputy Prime Minister Jiří Dienstbier. However, following the dissolution of the CSFR, its membership terminated upon dissolution, and the two newly established states – the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic – had to reapply for membership. The Czech Republic subsequently became a member of the Council of Europe on 30 June 1993, when the Committee of Ministers, taking into account the Parliamentary Assembly’s recommendation, adopted the resolution approving its accession.