Today, 9 May, we celebrate Europe Day – a day that goes far beyond commemorating political treaties and the Schuman Declaration. Yes – celebrate! Despite all the current difficulties and challenges, we have every reason to celebrate!
9 May reminds us of what we owe to European unification. The European Union is a historic peace project, a common economic area and, above all, a community of values based on solidarity, democracy, the rule of law and social progress. Countless people worldwide live in countries where this is not the case. In our immediate neighbourhood, in Ukraine, war is raging.
Konrad Adenauer summed up the historical significance of Europe:
“The unity of Europe was a dream of the few. It became a hope for many. Today, it is a necessity for us all.”
This idea remains as relevant as ever. Europe grows not only through its institutions, but through the commitment of all its citizens. At the same time, 9 May serves as a reminder that a united Europe cannot be taken for granted. That we all bear joint responsibility for its success.
Particularly in a time of profound global change, economic uncertainty and growing social challenges, the importance of European unity is clearer than ever. Competitiveness, industrial transformation, digitalisation, climate change, social security and fair labour markets can only be shaped through collective action.
The workers’ organisations united within the EZA network strive to fulfil their responsibility to shape social justice and decent work in their countries and at European level. Through its educational work to promote social dialogue, EZA has been seeking to support this for over 40 years.
In the words of Stefan-Bernhard Eirich, Federal President of KAB Germany / EZA member, and with reference to the German Catholic bishops, we appeal:
“Europe does not need sceptics who manage its downfall, but people who believe in the possibility of a just and peaceful order. Take courage! Let us not stand still, but continue to build this house that has given us peace and freedom for decades. Europe is our shared response to the challenges of this world – and this response is worth defending with hope and vigour.”
Europe is more than a political project. Europe is our shared space for work, life and the future.
Sigrid Schraml/Katrin Brüggen