75 years ago, on 4 November 1950, the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) was signed in Rome by 12 Council of Europe member states. This was a historic step towards a Europe that protects the fundamental rights of every individual and guarantees basic democratic freedoms. The 75th anniversary was celebrated with a solemn ceremony at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg on 4 November 2025. Since its entry into force in 1953, the Convention has been at the heart of European human rights protection in the (current) 46 member states of the Council of Europe.

In his speech, ECtHR President Mattias Guyomar stressed that the Convention is a fragile and precious asset that needs a commitment. He concluded that it is a renewed promise to live up to the legacy given to us 75 years ago by the authors of the Convention, and it is our responsibility to keep alive "the conscience that sounds the alarm".

Other speakers at the ceremony included Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Myriam Spiteri Debono, President of the Republic of Malta (which holds the presidency of the Committee of Ministers), and Theodoros Rousopoulos, President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. A video of the ceremony is made available at a dedicated website to the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe.

This website also includes information about other events and conferences held in 2025 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Convention, as well as useful background information on the ECHR as a "living instrument".