The educational center now proudly bears the title "Europe-Active Civil Society." Shaping Europe is a significant task of civil society, to which the Nell-Breuning-Haus has been dedicated for many years. On January 17, 2024, the North Rhine-Westphalian state government honored this commitment. The award strengthens all involved in continuing to pursue the important and lofty goals.
Especially in the current times and in the face of European elections, it is important to recognize such strong and European engagement. It is crucial to repeatedly focus on the goals: enabling participation, initiating democratic processes, fostering understanding, networking, collaborative action, and better exchange for the protection of workers.
In the pursuit of these goals, our member (NBH) is always guided by the fundamental principles of justice, solidarity, and sustainability. The inclusive and integrative implementation of the educational work of the Nell-Breuning-Haus also contributes to the strengthening of a united Europe. For these and many other reasons, the Nell-Breuning-Haus rightly received the award "Europe-Active Civil Society."
The certificate and congratulations were presented on behalf of Prime Minister Hendrik Wüst by Minister for Europe Nathanael Liminski and Minister for Local Government Ina Scharrenbach. Manfred Körber and Rainer Rißmayer accepted the recognition on behalf of all those at the Nell-Breuning-Haus who work for European understanding.
EZA, represented by Sigrid Schraml, was also present as a cooperation partner of the Nell-Breuning-Haus to accept the award. "We are proud that the excellent collaboration promoting social dialogue in Europe is being recognized. It is important to continually advocate for European values, and we believe that the Nell-Breuning-Haus exemplifies this strength very well!"
The significance was also emphasized by Minister for Europe Liminski. He spoke of a toxic mix to which Europe is exposed under the pressure of wars, crises, unresolved political tasks, and populist forces. Civil society actors like the Nell-Breuning-Haus counteract this through encounters and exchanges, also acknowledged by Minister for Local Government Scharrenbach. Europe deserves and needs the participation of all – we express our gratitude for this fantastic collaboration and are proud of the success of the Nell-Breuning-Haus.