Last updated on Tuesday, 21/05/2024
Europe Day is an important occasion celebrated on 5 May by the Council of Europe and on 9 May by the European Union, marking a celebration of peace and unity across the continent. This significant day dates back to the mid-20th century, rooted in the aftermath of multiple wars and aimed at cooperation and integration among European nations.
The journey towards Europe Day began with the establishment of the Council of Europe on 5 May 1949, a pivotal moment in European history. This step laid the groundwork for future collaboration and solidarity among European nations.
However, the European Union's recognition of Europe Day on 9 May holds a distinct significance, tracing back to the historic Schuman Declaration in 1950. Robert Schuman, then-French Foreign Minister, proposed the integration of coal and steel production between France and Germany, setting the stage for broader European cooperation. This proposal aimed not only at economic revitalisation but also at ensuring lasting peace by binding nations together through shared interests.
Over the years, Europe Day has evolved into a symbol of European integration and solidarity. The establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951 marked a crucial milestone, laying the foundation for deeper economic cooperation!
Over time, more agreements were made, which brought countries in Europe closer together. They formed institutions like the European Economic Community and, later on, the European Union. As more countries joined the EU, it showed that European nations were increasingly dedicated to working together and being united.
In 1985, the European Commission launched a series of cultural initiatives aiming at fostering a Pan-European identity and promoting European integration. This initiative, coupled with the official recognition of Europe Day by the European Council, strengthens the day's significance as a celebration of European unity and diversity.
In recent years, Europe Day has gained renewed relevance amidst global challenges and geopolitical shifts. The COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing crisis in Ukraine have underscored the importance of European solidarity and cooperation in addressing common threats and safeguarding peace and stability.
Europe Day serves as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations that bind European nations together. It is a day to celebrate diversity, embrace unity, and reaffirm the commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future for all Europeans.
In an exclusive interview, Miriam Teuma, CEO of Aġenzija Żagħżagħ (National Agency), provided valuable insights on engaging young people and fostering their participation in Europe Day.
Teuma emphasised the importance of European values in youth engagement: "European values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, and human rights are espoused and supported not only by the European Union but also by the wider Council of Europe.”
She highlighted initiatives undertaken in Malta to empower young citizens: "Malta's national youth policy, Towards 2030 places particular emphasis on the political empowerment of young people and supporting them as responsible citizens who participate in and contribute to the social, economic, political and cultural life of the nation and Europe.”
Teuma discussed practical programmes aimed at involving young people in democratic processes: "We have also undertaken a number of initiatives, such as the Model European Parliament, Young Parliamentarian, the Student Council Democracy Awards, and Civic Education Programmes in Schools, all of which aim to foster and provide practical examples and opportunities for young people to participate in democratic and electoral processes."
Regarding the active participation of young people in Europe Day celebrations and their contributions to European integration, Teuma highlighted the significance of youth strategies: "Both the European Union's Youth Strategy (2019-2027) and the Council of Europe's Youth Strategy 2030 have clear perspectives and policies on the active participation of young people."
She emphasised the importance of empowering young citizens: "Empowering young women and young men to be active and participative citizens at local, national and European level is critical if they are to successfully overcome the challenges and avail of the opportunities that face them today."
Looking towards the future, Teuma outlined the challenges and opportunities ahead: "The future challenges are formidable...The upcoming elections for the European Parliament in June 2024 and the increasingly important role that the new Parliament will play in shaping and determining the future of Europe is something that should motivate young people to vote and make their voices heard on the issues that matter to them."
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Young Journalists in Europe - Meet the author
Emma Brownrigg
Hello! I'm Emma Brownrigg Fenech, an 18-year-old studying journalism from Malta. Raised by political discussions, I've forged a deep interest in societal change. Presently, I serve as the Vice-President of my college. In 2022, I made my parliamentary debut. I eagerly anticipate engaging in global dialogue. Journalism and politics aside I enjoy rock and metal music. My commitment remains steadfast—to utilise media as a catalyst for meaningful societal transformation.
This article reflects the views of the authors only. The European Commission cannot be held responsible for it.
