The Parliamentary Assembly recalls that judicial and parliamentary scrutiny of a government and its agents, including special services, is of vital importance for the rule of law and democracy. It recognises the need for States to ensure effective protection of secrets affecting national security. The Assembly has welcomed the growing co-operation between different countries’ secret services, which constitutes an indispensable tool to confront the worst forms of organised crime and terrorism. This international co-operation should, however, be accompanied by equivalent co-operation between oversight bodies.