New York

13 May 2025

Secretary-General's video message to the Europe Day event which marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration - the foundation of the European Union - and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations

Download the video:
https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+5+May+25/3374143_MSG+SG+EUROPE+DAY+05+MAY+25.mp4
 

Excellencies,

I am honoured to send my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating Europe Day.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the European Union – and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

Two organizations born from the same tragedy – and united by the same resolve:

To spare humanity from war and hatred.

Through the years, the European Union has stood strong as a union of peoples and principles…

A force for reconciliation, rights, and reason…

And a reminder that peace can endure, blossom, and inspire.

We need that spirit more than ever.

In a world of growing divides and cascading crises, the EU remains a vital partner of the United Nations:

Defending human rights and dignity;

Advancing climate action and sustainable development;

And championing multilateralism when it is most tested.  

The Pact for the Future calls for stronger and fairer global institutions that reflect today’s realities and rise to tomorrow’s challenges.

Europe is essential in that effort.

Together, let’s keep working to bridge divides, foster bold transformations, and strive for solidarity and justice in a more united world. 

Happy Europe Day.