European Order of Merit: Angela Merkel, Lech Wałęsa, U2 and Giannis Antetokounmpo among first honorees
Roberta Metsola announces the inaugural recipients of the new European distinction
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced the first recipients of the newly established European Order of Merit, recognizing individuals who have made a significant contribution to European unity and values.
The European Order of Merit was officially launched on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, aiming to honor individuals who have contributed to European integration and to the promotion and protection of the values enshrined in the EU Treaties.
“With the European Order of Merit, we honor those who did not simply believe in Europe, but helped build it,” Metsola stated.
Among those named as Distinguished Members are former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, former Polish President Lech Wałęsa, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The title of Honorary Members has been awarded to prominent political figures and leaders, including Valdas Adamkus, Jerzy Buzek, Aníbal Cavaco Silva, Sauli Niinistö, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Mary Robinson, Maia Sandu, Javier Solana, Wolfgang Schüssel, and Jean-Claude Trichet.
Meanwhile, the category of Members of the European Order of Merit includes individuals from a wide range of fields. Among them are chef and humanitarian José Andrés, NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, human rights lawyer Oleksandra Matviichuk, physician Sandra Lejniece, lawyer and researcher Marc Gjidara, and former European Commission Vice-President Viviane Reding.
Also included are the members of the Irish band U2 — Bono (Paul David Hewson), The Edge (David Howell Evans), Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr.
The award recipients will be invited to an official ceremony, which will take place during the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg from May 18 to 21.
The European Order of Merit is expected to become one of the most prestigious distinctions within the European Union, highlighting individuals who have shaped Europe’s political, cultural, and humanitarian landscape.
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