European Union Unveils Inaugural Order of Merit Honours List
The European Union has marked a historic moment by introducing its first-ever honours system, the European Order of Merit. This prestigious initiative recognises twenty distinguished individuals for their significant contributions to European values and the promotion of integration across the continent.
Top Honours for Merkel, Zelensky, and Walesa
Among the recipients, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Poland's first post-communist Prime Minister Lech Walesa have been awarded the highest rank of Distinguished Member. These leaders are celebrated for their pivotal roles in shaping Europe's political landscape and upholding its core principles.
U2 Members Recognised for Cultural Impact
In a nod to cultural influence, the Irish rock band U2, including frontman Bono and guitarist The Edge, have been honoured with a lower grade as Members. According to official citations, U2 was selected for making an exceptional contribution to Europe's cultural influence and moral leadership. The band is praised for playing a defining role in shaping contemporary European culture and advocating for peace, freedom, and solidarity.
Bono has long been a vocal supporter of the EU, famously stating during a 2018 visit to the European Parliament, I feel at home here today. People are nervous about the rise of nationalism. I’m really excited about the rise of internationalism.
Ceremony and Selection Process
The honours were announced by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola in Strasbourg. She emphasised that the awards honour those who did not simply believe in Europe, but who helped build it. Recipients will receive a badge, a ribbon bar, and a certificate signed by Metsola at a formal ceremony scheduled for May.
A dedicated committee, which included former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, was responsible for selecting the honourees. The European Order of Merit was established to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, a foundational document that proposed a common European steel and coal community, paving the way for the EU.
Controversy Surrounding Merkel's Award
Despite the celebratory nature of the event, the honours were not without controversy. Boos were audible in the European Parliament building following the announcement of Angela Merkel's name. Her 16-year tenure as German Chancellor has been a subject of debate, with mixed reactions to her legacy.
Merkel was honoured for her leadership in transitioning Germany away from nuclear energy towards renewables. However, critics point out that this shift led to an increased reliance on polluting coal. Her foreign policy decisions have also drawn scrutiny, particularly her handling of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the 2015 migrant crisis.
During her chancellorship, Merkel's approach to Russia involved securing cheap gas deals, which some argue bolstered Vladimir Putin's regime. Additionally, her decision to welcome over one million Syrian refugees has since been disavowed by her own Christian Democratic Union party, highlighting ongoing divisions.
Structure and Future of the Honours System
The European Order of Merit features three tiers:
- Distinguished Member – the highest rank
- Honourable Member – the second rank
- Member – the lowest rank
While recipients can be promoted to higher ranks, the honour can also be revoked if individuals fail to uphold European values. This inaugural list represents the EU's first step in establishing a formal honours system, aimed at recognising ongoing contributions to European unity and ideals.
