Winston Churchill, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, delivered a landmark speech at the University of Zurich in Switzerland, which became instrumental in the establishment of the Council of Europe. In his speech, Churchill emphasized the importance of unity among European nations in the wake of the devastation wrought by World War II. He called for a “United States of Europe,” arguing that a collective European identity was essential for ensuring peace and stability. His vision included the promotion of democratic governance and the protection of human rights as core components of this new European identity.

The speech resonated widely, garnering support from various political leaders and intellectuals across Europe. Churchill's call for cooperation led to the meeting of foreign ministers from several European countries shortly after, culminating in the signing of the Statute of the Council of Europe in May 1949. The Council aimed to foster economic collaboration and cultural exchange while establishing a framework to uphold the principles of democracy and rule of law among its member states.

The Council of Europe was significant as it marked one of the earliest steps toward European integration. Unlike the European Union, which would form later, the Council focused primarily on human rights and democratic values. It served as a platform for dialogue and diplomacy, enabling European nations to address common challenges and work collaboratively in a spirit of peace, democracy, and human rights, setting the stage for future cooperation in Europe.