The European Order of Merit 

  • What is the European Order of Merit? 

    The European Order of Merit honours the achievements of individuals who have made a significant contribution to European integration or to the promotion and defence of the values enshrined in the Treaties. It aims to inspire future generations, highlighting civic courage and commitment to European ideals.

    The European Order of Merit was launched on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration - the starting point of European unity. It is the first European distinction of its kind granted by EU institutions and it complements national distinctions and decorations by recognising efforts that strengthen Europe as a whole.

    At a time of global uncertainty, its goal is to reaffirm shared values by honouring those who defend peace, democracy, and human dignity.

    The European Order of Merit consists of three levels of increasing distinction:

    • Member of the Order
    • Honourable Member of the Order
    • Distinguished Member of the Order

  • Proposals for appointment can be made by:

    • the President of the European Parliament;
    • the President of the European Council;
    • the President of the European Commission;
    • Heads of State or Government of the Member States who are members of the European Council;
    • the Speakers of the national parliaments of the Member States.

    Appointment to the Order shall take place through an annual procedure, under which a maximum of 20 laureates may be appointed per year. A maximum of five laureates may also be appointed to the Order per year in addition to that annual procedure.

    The decision is taken by a selection committee appointed by the Bureau of the European Parliament for 4 years. The committee is composed of the President of the European Parliament, two Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament and 4 eminent European personalities.

    Currently, the members of the selection committee appointed by the Bureau are Roberta Metsola, Ewa Kopacz, Sophie Wilmès, Michel Barnier, José Manuel Barroso, Josep Borrell and Enrico Letta.

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