Brussels opened its institutions to citizens, combining celebration with political debate and public engagement. Officials signalled renewed focus on collective security without spelling out final decisions.
In Brussels on May 9, Europe Day is celebrated, and this year we are marking the 76th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the European Union.
According to official EU figures, the capital hosted a wide range of events: EU institutions opened their doors to visitors, offering a programme and activities for children and adults.
Within the walls of the European Council, member states presented their national stands, and in the European Parliament’s Hemicycle visitors could learn about the work of the political groups represented in the legislative body.
“Perhaps hard to believe, especially for the younger generation, but the European Union was once regarded as an unreal utopia. Today the EU is no longer an incredible dream conceived by idealists behind bars on the island of Ventotene during World War II, and not merely a project on the desk of Robert Schuman. The EU is a living reality.”
– António Costa
The EU and leadership in testing times
In the context of the challenges to European unity and institutional autonomy, he emphasized: “No one protects European interests like Europe itself.”
“No one protects European interests like Europe itself.”
– António Costa
Charting the EU’s defence future
In light of growing discussions about full defence autonomy for Europe and responses to requests from the United States, European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius confirmed that Europe today faces external threats to peace and is strengthening defence and deterrence within the framework of a shared security architecture.
“Europe Day is the day of our commitment to peace in Europe!”
– Andrius Kubilius
During discussions ahead of the celebration, several dozen Members of the European Parliament urged national governments to move toward creating a European Defence Union that would encompass the security of the EU, Ukraine, as well as the United Kingdom and Norway.
Costa underscored the importance of multilateralism, stating that a multipolar world requires joint solutions based on international law and multilateral structures involving the United Nations and its Charter.
According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, attitudes toward EU membership are predominantly positive: about three-quarters of citizens believe their country has benefited from membership, and most see the EU as a source of stability and security. Also, around three-quarters of respondents said they feel like EU citizens.
In 2026 Europe Day also marks two significant anniversaries: forty years since Portugal and Spain joined the EU, and forty years since the first official celebration of Europe Day.
According to official data, Ukraine also marks Europe Day together with EU member states.
This date underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthening unity, expanding cooperation with neighbors, and a joint response to contemporary security and economic challenges, as well as a solid outlook for the future of the European community.