This new civilian honour will pay tribute to individuals who have contributed significantly to European integration and values. All member states except Ireland award distinctions in their national systems, reflecting a shared commitment across the Union to recognize excellence and reward contributions that enrich society. No similar honour currently exists at the European Union level. The European Order of Merit aims to fill this gap, reaffirming a shared European identity at a time when global challenges demand greater unity.
“Europe is built by its citizens, and the European Order of Merit is for them,” said President Roberta Metsola, explaining that “this Order celebrates courageous leaders who act with conviction and believe, as Robert Schuman did, that peace, democracy, and dignity are not just ideals, but concrete actions. On the 75th anniversary of the bold inception of the European project, we pay tribute to those who continue to nurture it.”
Proposals for nomination to the Order may be submitted by the president of the European Parliament, the president of the European Council, the president of the European Commission, the heads of state or government, and the presidents of the member states’ national parliaments. The selection committee, composed of the president of the European Parliament, two vice presidents, and four eminent European personalities, will select up to 20 laureates each year.
The first conferring ceremony is scheduled by the end of 2026 at the latest.
