A Court Open to All: European Court of Human Rights Launches Monthly Open Days in Strasbourg

The European Court of Human Rights is launching a new initiative, “A Court open to all,” starting this September. The public is invited to visit the Strasbourg premises on the first Friday of every month to gain behind-the-scenes insights into the institution’s history, architecture, and judicial processes. This landmark project aims to strengthen public awareness and understanding of the Court’s essential role in safeguarding human rights and democracy across the continent.

RMN News Human Rights Desk
New Delhi | August 21, 2026

STRASBOURG — The European Court of Human Rights has officially launched a new public initiative titled “A Court open to all”. Beginning in September, the Court will open its Strasbourg premises to visitors on the first Friday of every month, offering the public a rare behind-the-scenes look at the work, history, and landmark architecture of one of Europe’s primary human rights institutions. This program represents a major effort to increase public awareness and understanding of the Court’s vital role in defending democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across Europe.

A Firsthand Look at Justice and Landmark Architecture

Through these monthly open days, visitors will gain direct insight into how the Court operates. The public will discover the processes by which the Court examines applications brought forward by individuals, how its judgments are delivered and enforced, and the ways in which its extensive case-law has shaped the protection of fundamental rights across the continent.

In addition to learning about the legal mechanisms of the Court, visitors will have the opportunity to explore its world-renowned facility. Designed by the celebrated British architect Richard Rogers, the building is one of Strasbourg’s most famous landmarks. Visitors will be able to tour famous areas of the building, such as the courtrooms where some of Europe’s most influential case-law has been established. Tours will also explain what the physical design of the building is intended to metaphorically represent.

Furthermore, those attending the open days will be able to view a special exhibition marking the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Leadership and Civic Support in the Human Rights Capital

The project was officially introduced by the President of the Court, Mattias Guyomar, and the Registrar, Marialena Tsirli. They were joined by key representatives from the city of Strasbourg, including Mayor Catherine Trautmann.

Strasbourg’s local leadership has strongly embraced the program. Mayor Trautmann emphasized the deep significance of welcoming the public into the institution, stating that opening the doors is a powerful gesture that serves as a reminder that human rights, justice, and the rule of law are values that concern everyone rather than just being abstract principles. She also noted that for more than 65 years, the Court has actively advanced fundamental rights and played an instrumental role in establishing Strasbourg as “the European capital of human rights”.

Serving Hundreds of Millions Across Europe

Established in 1959, the European Court of Human Rights holds jurisdiction over more than 700 million people. The Court ensures that the 46 nations party to the European Convention on Human Rights fully respect the liberties and rights guaranteed under the treaty.

Under this legal framework, any individual who believes their Convention rights have been violated has the right to bring an application directly to the Court, provided they have already sought justice unsuccessfully within their national court systems. The “A Court open to all” initiative underscores the Court’s enduring commitment to making its work transparent and accessible to the millions of citizens it is designed to protect.