President Metsola Announces First Laureates Of The European Order Of Merit

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, has announced the first laureates of the newly established European Order of Merit, honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to European integration and the promotion of European values.

The announcement was made in Strasbourg, where Metsola said the award recognises those who helped shape Europe’s progress.

“Europe has always been built by people. Bridging divides, breaking barriers, overthrowing dictatorships and overcoming crises for a better future for our continent. This European commitment deserves to be celebrated. With the European Order of Merit, we honour those who did not simply believe in Europe, but who helped build it,” she said.

Among those appointed Distinguished Members are former German chancellor Angela Merkel, former Polish president Lech Wałęsa, and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky.

Other honourees include leaders such as Mary Robinson, Maia Sandu and Jean-Claude Trichet, while additional members include chef José Andrés, basketball star Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the band U2.

The distinction, created by the Parliament last year to mark the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, is the first civilian honour granted by an EU institution.

The laureates will receive the award during a ceremony scheduled for the Parliament’s May plenary session in Strasbourg.

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