The names of the first laureates of the European Order of Merit, who have made significant contributions to European integration were announced today in Strasbourg.
European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, today revealed the names of the first laureates of the newly established European Order of Merit, a recognition of significant contributions to European integration and the promotion and defence of European values.
“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”, President Metsola said when announcing the first laureates.
The laureates announced were selected by the Selection Committee of the Order composed of President Metsola, EP Vice-Presidents Sophie Wilmès and Ewa Kopacz, and Michel Barnier, José Manuel Barroso, Josep Borrell and Enrico Letta. Proposals for appointment originated from Heads of State or government, speakers of national parliaments and Presidents of the EU Institutions.
Angela Merkel, Former Federal Chancellor of Germany
Lech Wałęsa, former lader of Solidarnosc and former President of the Republic of Poland
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine
have been appointed Distinguished Member of the European Order of Merit.
Valdas Adamkus, Former President of Lithuania
Jerzy Buzek, Former Prime Minister of Poland and former President of the European Parliament
Aníbal Cavaco Silva, Former President and Prime Minister of Portugal
Sauli Niinistö, Former President of Finland and former Speaker of the Parliament of Finland
Pietro Parolin, Cardinale and Secretary of State of the Holy See
Mary Robinson, Former President of Ireland and former United Nations High
