Europe Day: Peace and Unity

The Schuman Declaration

In 1950, Europe was still recovering from the devastation of the Second World War, while tensions from the emerging Cold War were already on the rise. A group of European leaders, many of whom had experienced the horrors of both world wars, envisioned a united Europe. On 9 May 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman presented a declaration proposing the establishment of transnational economic cooperation in Europe. He called for the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community.

“The pooling of coal and steel production should immediately provide for the setting up of common foundations for economic development as a first step in the federation of Europe, and will change the destinies of those regions which have long been devoted to the manufacture of munitions of war, of which they have been the most constant victims.”

The founding members of this community were France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. The aim was to create a community of nations so closely linked that war between them would no longer be possible. These were the foundations upon which the European Union was later built. From the European Coal and Steel Community eventually emerged the European Economic Community and, later, the European Union.

Slovenia has been a full member of the EU since 2004

On 1 May 2004, the European Union underwent its fifth and largest enlargement in history. Alongside Slovenia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, and Slovakia joined the Union. This enlargement helped to spread stability, peace, and prosperity across the continent.

Membership in the EU brings benefits beyond political and economic cooperation – it also shapes the daily lives of its citizens

EU citizens have the right to live, study, or work in any EU country and enjoy the free movement of people and goods.

To mark Europe Day, the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia shared some interesting data. With its unspoiled nature, art, culture, and culinary experiences, Slovenia is a destination worth feeling and experiencing. Last year, Slovenia welcomed 6.6 million tourists, including 5.1 million from abroad. Nearly three-quarters of these – around 3.8 million – came from other EU member states, most notably Germany, Italy, and Austria.

Linguistic diversity is another key aspect of the EU. Languages shape personal identity and are part of our shared heritage. The EU currently recognizes 24 official languages. In 2022, 49% of all upper secondary school students across the EU were learning at least two foreign languages – the same was true in Slovenia.

Celebrating Europe Day

On Europe Day, EU institutions open their doors to the public, offering a range of educational and entertaining activities. Slovenia has also joined in the celebration. On the eve of Europe Day, Ljubljana and Maribor were lit up in European colors. Visitors enjoyed stands, workshops and concerts to learn more about how the European Union works. On 9 May, “Europe Day with the youth” is taking place in Nova Gorica, which, in harmony with Gorizia, Italy, holds the title of European Capital of Culture this year.

A particularly solemn moment will be the central national ceremony at which Slovenia will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day and the end of the Second World War – a historic turning point that marked the beginning of peace and freedom.
This evening is dedicated to celebrating Victory Day – not only as a tribute to all who paved the way to freedom, but also as a reminder that peace and freedom are never to be taken for granted, and are among the most precious values we hold.