The leadership of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has changed. Austrian politician Petra Bayr became the organization’s new head, soundly defeating her opponents in the first round of voting. She secured 164 votes compared to 50 for the other candidate, Victoria Tiblom of Sweden.
The PACE President is elected for a one-year term with the possibility of one re-election, totaling a maximum of two years. Bayr replaces Theodoros Rousopoulos of Greece, whose two-year tenure has concluded.
Who is Petra Bayr?
Petra is a veteran of Austrian and European politics, boasting an impressive track record:
- She has been a member of the National Council (Austrian Parliament) since 2002. Since 2025, she has chaired the Foreign Affairs Committee. She represents the Social Democratic Party.
- She has worked in PACE since 2018. During this time, she has managed key areas, ranging from equality issues to the selection of judges for the ECHR (European Court of Human Rights).
Her professional focus has consistently centered on the «human dimension»: combating racism, protecting women in conflict zones, and promoting the global goals of the UN.
Priorities of the New PACE Head
In her inaugural speech, Petra Bayr clearly outlined her emphasis: «My goal is to strengthen international law during moments when it faces the greatest challenges.»
Her key areas of focus will include the uncompromising protection of human rights across the continent, continuing the work towards establishing an inclusive and safe environment in Europe, and comprehensive support for Ukraine in resisting Russian aggression.
