In an Euronews exclusive, Council of Europe Secretary General and former Swiss President Alain Berset makes the case for a new democratic pact before Europe hits a tipping point.

“Across Europe, foreign influence laws are being introduced. Their intent may be legitimate. But as I have made clear, these measures should not be used to stifle criticism or shrink civic space.

These laws must be scrutinised without double standards, especially by the judiciary. What is deemed unacceptable in Georgia or Hungary must be judged by the same measure in Germany or Romania.

Because double standards, whether real or perceived, erode public trust and damage Europe’s credibility, not least in the eyes of the Global South.

This is where the real danger lies: trading democratic security for the security of democracy, without even realising it”, - said Alain Berset.