The President of the European Parliament, the President of the European Council, and the President of the European Commission have issued a joint statement on the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. The statement was made in Luxembourg, where Robert Schuman was born, commemorating the declaration made on May 9, 1950.
The leaders reflected on how, seventy-five years ago, Europe was recovering from World War II. Visionary leaders then chose to unite coal and steel production and markets to ensure lasting peace in Europe. This initiative aimed to replace historical rivalries with shared sovereignty through economic and political integration. It marked the beginning of an era characterized by prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity, and cooperation across Europe.
The statement noted that over time more countries joined this common European project, attracted by shared values of democracy and unity among Europe’s peoples.
However, they acknowledged that challenges remain today. “Europe is once again facing major challenges,” they stated. They highlighted Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as bringing war close to Europe’s borders while global tensions rise and climate change impacts millions in Europe and worldwide.
They reaffirmed their commitment to a united European project and emphasized enlargement as a key geopolitical investment for the EU. Efforts are being intensified to maintain economic prosperity, competitiveness, and social progress for citizens. They are also taking significant steps to bolster security and defense as well as strategic autonomy.
“We are determined to uphold a rules-based international order,” they declared while stressing support for Ukraine’s efforts towards peace. The spirit of Schuman’s vision continues to guide their actions toward ensuring peace and cooperation in Europe.
