Access to justice for migrants and asylum seekers in Europe

Further to the 28th Conference of European Ministers of Justice (Lanzarote, Spain, 25-26 October 2007), the Council of Europe has continued working on access to justice for migrants and asylum seekers. This publication contains an assessment of the situation faced by this vulnerable category of persons in accessing justice. It deals in particular with the identification of measures - both existing and new - for facilitating and ensuring such access for these people.

Introduction Definitions Access to justice in respect of which rights? Specialised treaties European Union law Human rights treaties The scope of rights of access to justice Treaties concerned with migrants European Union law Human rights treaties Treaties concerned with consular assistance Other relevant Council of Europe treaties Shortcomings and remedies Shortcomings in standards Shortcomings in practice Good practices and standards Possible action by the Council of Europe Conclusion