Debates on mass surveillance and the need to uphold human rights and international law in connection with the use of drones and targeted killings will be among the highlights of the Spring Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), to be held in Strasbourg from 20 to 24 April.

His Majesty the King of the Belgians will address the Assembly on Tuesday 21 April.

A current affairs debate on “The political and security situation in Ukraine and its implications” has been requested.

In addition, the Assembly will debate the reconsideration of sanctions in respect of the Russian delegation to the Assembly, the humanitarian consequences of the actions of the terrorist group known as “Islamic State” and discrimination against transgender people in Europe. It will also focus on legislation and practice concerning the removal of children from their families in the member States, as well as post-monitoring dialogue with Monaco.

Didier Reynders, Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Affairs of Belgium, will present the communication from the Committee of Ministers in the framework of the Belgian Chairmanship, and Nils Muiznieks, Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner, will present his 2014 Annual activity report.