European Order of Merit Honors U2 and Mary Robinson for Promoting European Values
U2 members and former President of Ireland Mary Robinson have been honored with the European Order of Merit, a new award recognizing individuals who have contributed to promoting and defending European values. The award ceremony took place at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, where 20 inaugural laureates were recognized for their significant contributions to European integration and the promotion of values such as peace, democracy, and human dignity.
Among the recipients were U2, represented collectively by Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen, who were acknowledged for their cultural excellence, social commitment, and promotion of peace, freedom, and solidarity through their music and humanitarian efforts. Mary Robinson, known for her leadership in advancing equality, justice, and human rights, was also honored for her dedication to vulnerable communities and a more just and sustainable world.
European Parliament president Roberta Metsola emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who champion European values in various aspects of life, highlighting the impact of their actions on strengthening the European Union. The laureates, including Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, former German chancellor Angela Merkel, chef José Andrés, basketball player Giannis Antetokounmpo, and human rights lawyer Oleksandra Matviichuk, were recognized for their contributions to promoting European values and unity.
The European Order of Merit was established last year to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, a pivotal moment in European integration. Each year, up to 20 individuals can be appointed to the order in recognition of their efforts to uphold and advance European values. The recipients of the award exemplify the spirit of unity and cooperation that underpins the European project, demonstrating the power of individual actions in strengthening the collective fabric of Europe.