On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, the European Parliament establishes the European Order of Merit, the first European distinction of its kind.
On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, the founding moment of European unity, the Bureau of the European Parliament has decided to establish a European Order of Merit, the first European distinction of its kind to be awarded by an EU institution.
This new civilian award will be given to individuals who have made significant contributions to European integration and European values.
All Member States, with the exception of Ireland, award national distinctions or merits, reflecting a common commitment across the EU to recognise excellence and reward contributions to the benefit of society. There is currently no similar award at EU level. The European Order of Merit seeks to fill that gap. It is also a way of reaffirming a shared European identity at a time when the global situation calls for a stronger unity than ever before.
Parliament’s President Roberta Metsola said: “Europe is built by its citizens and the European Order of Merit is for them. This award honours those who lead with courage, act with conviction and believe, like Robert Schuman, that peace, democracy and dignity are not just ideals, but actions. On the 75th anniversary of Europe’s boldest beginning, we pay tribute to those who continue to build it.
Nominations may be made by the Presidents of the European Parliament, the European Council and the European Commission, the Heads of State or Government and the Presidents of the national parliaments of the Member States. Each year, a panel composed of the President and two Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament and four prominent European personalities will select a maximum of 20 laureates.
The first award ceremony is scheduled to take place before the end of 2026. With this initiative, the European Parliament pays tribute to the enduring spirit of European unity, from its post-war beginnings to the challenges of today.
More information: European Parliament
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