Book excerpt: As this edition of the Council of Europe Highlights was being finalised, our societies were facing unprecedented medical, social and economic challenges due to the coronavirus crisis. ■ The Council of Europe’s task is to assist our member states in making sure that the measures they take to fight the pandemic do not unduly risk the protection of our common European values of democracy, rule of law and human rights. ■ We are reminded of the foundation of these values this year which marks the 70th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights. 2019 – the year covered by these Highlights – marked the 70th anniversary of the Treaty of London in 1949 when the Council of Europe was founded. Since then, Europe has undergone tectonic shifts of its political and economic landscape, not least with the emergence and enlargement of the European Union. ■ The Council of Europe has maintained its own distinct role and place in the international institutional architecture. However, as many of the activities highlighted in this document demonstrate, the Council of Europe and the European Union now work together closely and in a complementary way in the interest of Europe’s citizens. Foreword by Daniel Höltgen (Director of Communications, Spokesperson for the Secretary General) This publication presents the work carried out in 2019 by the different bodies and sectors of the Council of Europe, highlighting its particular strengths and achievements.