Documents
Access to Council documents, archives, and other databases.
Access to Council documents
Public register is under maintenance
The public register is the online database of Council documents published after 1999.
It contains three types of documents:
- preparatory legislative documents
- meeting documents (agendas, minutes, conclusions, votes, outcomes)
- press releases (1999-2013)
Need help? Read our guidance to find out where and how to find Council documents.
If you cannot access a document
Most documents are available directly in the register without restriction, but for some documents it might be necessary to make an access request. If you request access, you will receive a reply within 15 working days.
Archives: documents over 30 years old
The archives department is responsible for collecting and preserving documents related to the Council.
Search the archives
Documents that are over 30 years old are stored in the Council’s archives. It is possible to request access.
Learning from the past
Interviews with key people who have contributed to the development and history of the EU.
Other databases
Treaties and agreements
Information on EU treaties and agreements signed with third party countries or organisations.
Last review: 27 October 2026