Politics
Europeans celebrate 75 Years of unity and solidarity on Europe Day 2025 | News
The Schuman Declaration laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.
To mark the occasion, many events will take place in EU Member States and around the world, bringing together citizens from all walks of life. The EU institutions will open their doors and invite citizens to visit their premises, discover their work and engage in a wide range of educational and entertaining activities.
Landmark buildings and monuments across the globe will be illuminated in the EU colours, while a special Europe Day programme is planned for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
In times of global uncertainty, Europe remains an anchor of stability – a place of opportunity and protection for its citizens. The EU and its institutions are working towards the common goal of ensuring prosperity and competitiveness, guaranteeing our security and defence, while upholding the fundamental values Europeans care about.
European Parliament
On 4 May, citizens of all ages will be able to attend the official Europe Day opening ceremony and take a seat in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The ceremony will begin with a video message from President Roberta Metsola, followed by a speech from Vice-President Younous Omarjee, and a musical performance by the Voix de Stras’ ensemble. Through various exhibits and interactive activities, visitors will learn how the Parliament works, how laws are made, and why European politics matters. Visitors will also be able to visit the “Changemakers” exhibition. On 10 May, the public will once again be given the chance to discover European democracy in action at the Parliament’s hemicycle in Brussels, with day-long activities emphasising the importance of citizen participation. In Luxembourg, special activities will mark the first anniversary of the Visitors’ Centre on 9 May, including the recently inaugurated Europa Experience. The following day, a rich cultural programme is planned in the Echternach Abbey courtyard. Full programme and events organised in the 27 EU countries.
European Council/Council of the European Union
On 10 May, the Council of the European Union will also open its doors, granting citizens an opportunity to follow in EU leaders’ footsteps. Guided tours throughout the day will offer visitors a rare look at where important European decisions are made. Each of the 27 Member States will host a stand, showcasing their culture, traditions, culinary specialties and more. Younger visitors can also expect tailor-made activities, including a treasure hunt and a “fun fact” quest designed specifically for kids. In honour of the Council’s 50th anniversary, the public will even be able to travel back in time and take a selfie with the leaders of 1974.
European Commission
On 10 May, citizens will also have the opportunity to visit the Commission’s iconic Berlaymont building in Brussels. Here, they will have the chance to learn about the Commission’s role and priorities, engage in series of activities, and find out more about initiatives and concrete benefits for their daily lives. Among others, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the Commission’s efforts to boost European competitiveness both, promote social cohesion, protect democracy and protect fundamental rights, at home and abroad.
European Central Bank
As part of its Europe Day celebrations on 10 May, the European Central Bank (ECB) will bring the vibrant spirit of Europe to its hometown, Frankfurt am Main, by participating in the city’s Europa-Fest. Visitors will find the ECB at the “European Marketplace” on the Römerberg plaza, alongside Frankfurt-based European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority and the Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism. In such a special year, celebrating 40 years of Schengen and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, many themed activities have been organised, with the ECB even planning a lightshow, to be projected onto the west wing of the city’s Grossmarkthalle. In Brussels, the ECB will also host its own stand at the Commission’s Europe Day event.
European Investment Bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group will welcome visitors to its stand at the Council of the European Union’s Justus Lipsius building as part of its Open Day on 10 May in Brussels. EIB Group staff will inform visitors of how its financing and advisory services improve lives and advance EU policy goals. This includes anything from innovation, security and defence to social and territorial cohesion, and the transition towards a net-zero economy. The stand itself will be enhanced by various activities and media, such as quizzes, games and audiovisual material showcasing EIB-financed projects.
European Court of Auditors
On 10 May, as part of the Europe Day celebrations in Echternach, EU auditors will host a series of interactive and engaging activities at the European Court of Auditors’ premises. Among other things, visitors will have the chance to partake in an engaging quiz to test their audit skills. Families and people of all ages are welcome to discover how the European Court of Auditors, the guardian of the EU’s finances, helps protect EU citizens’ money.
European External Action Service
The European External Action Service (EEAS) will open its doors to the public on 10 May for its “Travel the World in a Day“. Travel the World in a Day” event. Visitors to the EU’s diplomatic headquarters in Brussels will be given an opportunity to learn about the work of the EEAS and its 144 delegations and offices worldwide. Through interactive exhibits and activities, visitors will discover the EU’s role as a global leader and reliable partner for prosperity, peace, security, multilateralism, democracy, and a rules-based order. The event will also include a digital booth to help explore the EU pavilion at Expo 2025 in Japan, as well as live dance performances, workshops and family-friendly activities that celebrate global diversity.
European Economic and Social Committee
This year, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will also host a special celebration of the Schuman Declaration’s 75th anniversary. To honour this seminal text, the EESC – the house of European organised civil society – is putting together a range of activities on its premises, through which it will inform and engage with citizens, while offering insights into its various Sections’ and Groups’ advisory work. The day itself will offer entertainment for all, with a real-time voting simulation allowing visitors to step into EESC members’ shoes and discover the process for themselves.
European Committee of the Regions
On 10 May, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) – ideally located between the European Parliament and Council in Brussels – will open its doors to the public as well, showcasing how it represents regions and cities in the EU, and everything that regional and local elected politicians do for citizens. Visitors will learn how their region voices its interests in the EU, and they will have the chance to meet local and regional elected politicians and discuss European issues in a direct, informal atmosphere. The traditional Festival of Regions and Cities will treat visitors to a showcase of their preferred tourist spots, traditional music and dance, and various culinary specialties.
Background
Europe Day held on 9 May every year celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the ‘Schuman declaration’, a historic proposal made by Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, in 1950 that laid out the foundation of European cooperation. Schuman’s proposal is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.
In 2025, Europe Day is a special occasion, as we are celebrating 75 years since the Schuman declaration. To learn more about each institution’s programme, visit the Europe Day 2025 website.
Author
Politics
Press release – World Press Freedom Day 3 May: defending media freedom to safeguard democracy
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Vice-President Sabine Verheyen and Culture and Education Committee Chair Nela Riehl stress the vital role of independent journalism.
President Roberta Metsola said: “A free press is the best shield for democracy. Journalists must be free to report without fear of censorship, intimidation, or retaliation. The European Parliament will always defend and stand up for media and press freedom – not only on World Press Freedom Day, but every day.”
Sabine Verheyen (EPP, DE), Vice-President of the European Parliament and chair of the Working Group on the implementation of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) said:
“On World Press Freedom Day, we reaffirm our commitment to one of the fundamental pillars of democracy: media freedom. Free, independent, and diverse journalism is essential to any democratic society. However, it remains under threat – even within some EU member states – and without it, democracy cannot function. The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), passed in April 2024, is vital in addressing these challenges. It sends a strong message about the need to protect media diversity and journalistic independence across Europe. Media is more than just an industry – it shapes political discourse, drives cultural development, fosters social inclusion, and safeguards fundamental rights.
“The EMFA represents a historic milestone for the EU: for the first time, a comprehensive European law is in place to uphold press freedom and media pluralism. We have made significant legislative progress in shielding journalists from political interference and economic pressure. But these protections now need to be actively enforced.
“The EMFA is already taking effect. The first provisions have officially entered into force, with the next set to follow this month. By August 2025, the most significant parts of the law will come into effect, marking a major step in strengthening media freedom across the EU. However, the real impact of the EMFA depends on its implementation. That is why we are already monitoring the process closely to ensure that member states do not delay its enforcement. Press freedom cannot wait – we must act upon these commitments.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, we have to remember the importance of standing firm in defending media freedom. Troubling global trends remind us that indifference is not an option. Even in Europe, we must remain vigilant in upholding our democratic values. Press freedom is the backbone of democracy – defending it means protecting our freedoms and the values we hold dear.”
Nela Riehl (Greens, DE), Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education, said: “An independent press sector is an essential pillar of our democracy. We need a free press to hold our decision makers accountable, advance social change, and keep citizens informed. I am concerned about the drastic increase in young people’s exposure to news from unverified sources on social media. Quality journalism is competing with algorithms on social media platforms for our attention. To minimise the spread of harmful disinformation, the EU is now starting to regulate digital platforms, but we also need to improve media literacy, make sure people have access to accurate information, and provide education on media consumption.
“This should be a high priority for civic education, with clear targets as we work towards improved democratic resilience across Europe. As a committee, we are pushing these challenges up the European education agenda, and we welcome the first steps in this direction under the Commission’s “Union of Skills” initiative.
“My recent visit to Ukraine reminded me of the power of citizens to counter threats to democracy. When the manipulation of information is weaponised, strengthening and protecting people – namely independent journalists, reporters, media professionals, and volunteers – is a matter of security as well. Accordingly, this World Press Freedom Day, we also emphasise the need to make work environments safe for the independent press, with liveable working conditions, a supportive European infrastructure, and protection from persecution.”
The chairs of the Civil Liberties Committee, the Human Rights Subcommittee and the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield are also issuing a statement to mark the World Press Freedom Day. You can read it here (available soon).
How Parliament strengthens media freedom
In early 2024, Parliament and Council adopted new rules to protect freedom of media and the independence of journalists in the EU. The provisions of the Media Freedom Act (EMFA) will become fully applicable in EU member states as of 8 August 2025.
These provisions should ensure transparency of media outlet ownership and of allocation of state advertising, strengthen public media independence, and secure robust protection for journalists and their sources. To ensure visibility and pluralism, digital platforms will be prevented from arbitrarily deleting or restricting independent media content.
A directive to protect journalists and civil society activists against strategic lawsuits seeking to silence critical voices must be transposed into national law in all EU member states by 7 May 2026.
Every year, the European Parliament rewards outstanding journalism that promotes or defends the core principles and values of the European Union, such as human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, and human rights. The fifth edition of the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism will be launched later this month.
Author
On 30 April 2025 , the Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) hosted a virtual info session on the newly launched call *DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-AC-08: European Digital Innovation Hubs – Associated Countries (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus) , * under the Digital Europe Programme .
The event provided stakeholders from academia, industry, public institutions, and research organisations an opportunity to learn more about the funding opportunities, the application process, and key requirements for submitting competitive proposals. Participants also engaged in live Q&A sessions aimed at clarifying eligibility criteria and submission procedures.
Two Strategic Objectives
The call is divided into two main topics, each targeting specific strategic goals:
1. DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-AC-08-COMPLETION-STEP: Completion of the initial EDIH Network
This part of the call aims to expand the existing network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) by including entities from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Moldova . The objective is to enhance the overall performance and capacity of the EDIH network to address digitalisation needs at local, regional, national, and EU levels.
- Total Budget : €2 million
- Focus : Completing the pan-European coverage of the EDIH network
- Eligible countries : Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova
2. DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-AC-08-CONSOLIDATION-STEP: Consolidation of the EDIH Network with AI Focus
This topic seeks to strengthen the EDIH network by selecting new hubs from Seals of Excellence holders in four associated countries: Albania, North Macedonia, Türkiye, and Ukraine . These new EDIHs will have a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) , supporting the EU’s broader strategy to become a global leader in trustworthy AI.
- Total Budget : €9 million
- Focus : Reinforcing AI capabilities across the extended EDIH network
- Eligible countries : Albania, North Macedonia, Türkiye, Ukraine
What Was Covered in the Info Session?
Presentations delivered during the event included:
- Policy Context : Overview of the Digital Europe Programme and the role of EDIHs in bridging the digital divide across Europe.
- Legal Validation and Financial Capacity Assessment : Key steps applicants must follow to ensure compliance with funding rules.
- Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) : Insights into how EDIHs can align their activities with priority technologies identified by STEP.
- Submitting a Successful Proposal via the Funding & Tenders Portal : Practical guidance on navigating the online submission system.
- Support with Proposal Preparation : Tips and resources available to help applicants develop high-quality proposals.
All presentation materials are now available online , offering a valuable resource for prospective applicants preparing their submissions.
Building a Pan-European Digital Ecosystem
The expansion and consolidation of the EDIH network represent a crucial step toward achieving a truly inclusive and geographically balanced European digital innovation ecosystem . By reinforcing AI capacities and extending coverage to associated countries, the EU aims to support SMEs, public authorities, and citizens in adopting advanced digital technologies.
“This call is not just about funding—it’s about empowering regions, building expertise, and ensuring that all parts of Europe can benefit from the digital transformation,” said a HaDEA representative during the session.
Next Steps
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the call documents and presentations on the Funding & Tenders Portal and begin assembling their consortia. The deadline for submission is expected to be announced shortly.
For more information and updates on this call and other Digital Europe Programme initiatives, visit the HaDEA website or contact HaDEA directly via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
Source link
Author
Every year, on 9 May, people across Europe celebrate the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which was a milestone to bring peace and solidarity in Europe. This year is particularly special as it marks the 75th anniversary of this historic moment.
Let’s celebrate together
To celebrate this occasion, the EDPB takes part in the EU Open Day, with an interactive stand hosted by volunteers from the EDPB Secretariat and national Data Protection Authorities (DPAs). Come and visit us to learn more about data protection and the EDPB’s activities.
You will find the EDPB and EDPS stands at the European Commission’s headquarters – the Berlaymont building – Village 1 “A Democratic Union”, on Saturday 10 May from 10:00 to 18:00.
Do you want to learn more about privacy and data protection — and test your knowledge?Come visit us for fun activities and quizzes designed just for you!
Further information about Europe Day 2025
Source link
Author
Kelsey Grammer’s Sister: About His Late Sibling Karen & Her Murder
Can You Watch the Diddy Trial Live? How to See the Coverage
Jennifer Aniston’s Net Worth in 2025: How Much Money She Has
-
EU & the World7 days agoRobert De Niro’s Kids: Meet the Award-Winning Actor’s 7 Children
-
EU & the World7 days agoMichael Bolton’s Kids: Everything To Know About His 3 Adult Daughters
-
EU & the World6 days agoWho Is Ashley Buchanan? About the Kohl’s CEO Who Was Fired
-
EU & the World3 days agoIs Sheinelle Jones Still on the ‘Today’ Show? Update
-
EU & the World5 days agoRuth Buzzi’s Health: All About the Late Comedian’s Alzheimer’s Disease & More
-
Sports7 days agoReal Madrid, sting on Antonio Rüdiger
-
Politics7 days agoPress release – “Flow” wins 2025 LUX Audience Award
-
EU & the World4 days agoKing Charles’ Health: About His Cancer Journey, Hospitalizations & More
