Europe Day, celebrated every year on May 9, commemorates the date of the Schuman Declaration, presented by the then French foreign minister Robert Schuman in 1950.

Schuman had proposed the creation of a European Coal and Steel Community, whose members would pool coal and steel production. The idea was taken up by six countries and developed into what we know today as the European Union. Europe Day is a chance to reflect on what solidarity has built and what we hope to achieve in the future.

This year, on May 9, the Conference on the Future of Europe will be formally launched in Strasbourg. This EU-wide initiative is a unique and timely opportunity for European citizens to provide their views on any topic that they consider important for the future of Europe. Through a Multilingual Digital Platform, citizens have a digital hub to put forward their ideas, comment on other people’s ideas, create and participate in events. The Platform is the place where all contributions will be brought together and shared.

By spring 2022, the Conference is expected to reach conclusions and provide guidance on the future of Europe. Read more on how to participate here.