Europe Day held on 9 May every year celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the historic 'Schuman declaration'. At a speech in Paris in 1950, Robert Schuman, the then French foreign minister, set out his idea for a new form of political cooperation in Europe, which would make war between Europe's nations unthinkable.

His vision was to create a European institution that would pool and manage coal and steel production. A treaty creating such a body was signed just under a year later. Schuman's proposal is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.

EU institutions celebrate Europe Day

To celebrate Europe Day, the EU institutions open their doors to the public in early May in Brussels and Strasbourg. Local EU offices in Europe and all over the world organise a variety of activities and events for all ages.

Each year thousands of people take part in visits, debates, concerts and other events to mark the day and raise awareness about the EU.

Europe Day 2020

On Europe Day 2020, the EU institutions paid tribute through numerous online activities to the many Europeans who, in a spirit of solidarity, are helping our Union get through the coronavirus crisis. You find here a heart-warming set of testimonials and 16 ways in which Europeans are fighting the coronavirus as well as updated information on the EU’s response to the coronavirus crisis. The European Commission Representations, European Parliament Liaison Offices and Delegations of the European Union marked Europe Day in the context of the COVID-19 crisis and partnered with local and national authorities to celebrate solidarity, EU values and European spirit.

9th May 2020 also marked the 70th anniversary of the Schuman declaration, the starting point of our journey towards the European Union. Robert Schuman’s life and work was defined by his passion to end war in Europe. Therefore, it was fitting that we also commemorated 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe. Today we work together for a safer world.

Citizens in Europe and around the world celebrated Europe Day with our offices, accompanied by music from European artists. Please check out further highlights under the links below.

European Parliament

European Council

European Commission

European External Action Service

European Economic and Social Committee

European Committee of the Regions