Full Breakdown
European Parliament Awards Inaugural European Order of Merit
5/20/2026, 11:04:14 PM
Inaugural Presentation of the European Order of Merit
On Tuesday, the European Parliament in Strasbourg will confer the newly created European Order of Merit for the first time. Thirteen of roughly twenty laureates are expected to attend the 11.30 a.m. (0930 GMT) ceremony and give brief speeches. The award recognises contributions to European integration and defence of EU core values.
Origins and Purpose
The order was introduced last year to recognise contributions to European integration and to people who promote and defend the bloc’s core values. The Parliament says the award targets “people who help build Europe” by bridging divides, breaking barriers and overcoming crises.
Principal Laureates
The highest tier will be awarded to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Polish President Lech Walesa. Merkel is recognised for her long-standing commitment to European ideals; Zelenskyy, who will not attend, is honoured for his contributions to European integration and defence of EU values; Walesa is noted for leading the pro-democracy movement that ended communist rule. Lower-level recipients include Vatican Secretary-General Pietro Parolin, Moldovan President Maia Sandu, former ECB President Jena-Claude Trichet, former Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel, and members of the rock band U2.
Structure and Numbers
The Order has three tiers. About twenty individuals have been selected, with thirteen expected to accept in person. The three top-tier laureates are Merkel, Zelenskyy and Walesa; the others will receive the second or third tier.
Official Statements
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said the order celebrates active builders of Europe rather than passive supporters, noting the continent’s history of overcoming authoritarian regimes and crises. She framed the award as a tribute to those turning challenges into opportunities for unity. The Parliament reiterated that the criteria focus on tangible contributions to integration and defence of EU values.
Verbatim Quotes
- “With the European Order of Merit, we honor those who did not simply believe in Europe, but who helped build it.” — Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament
- “ "Europe has always been built by people.” — Roberta Metsola
- “Bridging divides, breaking barriers, overthrowing dictatorships and overcoming crises for a better future for our continent.” — Roberta Metsola
- “This European commitment deserves to be celebrated," she said.” — Roberta Metsola
Implications for European Unity
By honouring leaders from varied political backgrounds, the Parliament reinforces a narrative of shared achievement across the Union. The ceremony links historic milestones, such as the fall of communism, to current challenges, fostering a collective identity grounded in concrete deeds.
