« Advocacy and education for the abolition of the death penalty » : workshop occured for a second year in a row

The youth as the ambassador of abolition

The workshop’s objective is to integrate young activists in the core of the abolitionist action by giving them concrete tools to build a long lasting activism. This initiative takes its roots in the implementation of the Reykjavik Summit Declaration in 2023, where the Heads of State and Government indicated that the Council of Europe must continue its fight for the abolition of the death penalty. Therefore, the role of ECPM is to enhance their knowledge on human rights and global citizenship for them to develop independence in their actions. This intention was embodied in the implementation of an inclusive and collaborative approach during activities.

The activities implemented allowed the initial objective to be met : the importance to build a network of young ambassadors. Even though the death penalty issue must be addressed in retentionist states, raising awareness in states that abolished it should not be given up.

The use of concrete educational tools

Aiming the development of an efficient activism which is adapted to each state, the week was fulled with collective working times and situation scenario. The simulation vote of the United Nations resolution for a moratorium on the death penalty application at the Palace of Europe was the most significant.

This exercise took place in conditions close to reality, which allowed participants to embody real states ambassadors and to understand the role of every stakeholders (NGOs, states and institutions).

What is next ?

A staunch collective spirit emerged from this workshop. The participants left with the willingness to pursue concrete projects at the dawn of significant milestones like the World Day against the Death Penalty next Autumn. Young activists were supported by the different organisators, stakeholders and former participants of the first workshop in the implementation of their activism which is aimed to operate independently in the near future.

The workshop is also extending internationally since it took place in Cape Verde on 24th to 28th June 2024.