Europe Day, which was established during the European Council meeting in Milan in June 1985, is celebrated annually on May 9th. It marks a significant moment in European history and serves as a reminder of the continent’s journey towards unity and peace. Europe Day commemorates the anniversary of the historical “Schuman Declaration” made in 1950 by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman.
Do you want to learn more about the history of Europe Day, and the principles and values it was built on? Stay with us and read how Foodscale Hub contributes to nurturing these fundamental ideals, as well.
State of Europe Before the Schuman Declaration
Leading up to 1950, European nations were slowly recovering from the enormous human and economic devastation of World War II, while facing global tensions sparked by the Cold War.
In that setup, a group of European politicians, many of whom had witnessed the devastation of both world wars, wanted to unite Europe. Their primary aim was to prevent any future conflicts between European countries. These politicians were later recognised as the founding fathers of the European Union. Their vision was for European countries to combine their strategic resources, in order to make war between historic rivals, like France and Germany, “not merely unthinkable, but materially impossible.”
Union of Coal and Steel Industries and Birth of Europe Day
The central idea behind the concept of a united Europe was the union of coal and steel industries. Previously, these heavy industries were under the exclusive control of sovereign states and played a crucial role in starting wars.
Believing that combining their economic interests could prevent the formation of cartels and monopolies, and improve living standards, the governments of France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg took a historic step towards European unity. They were all united by a shared vision: a Europe characterised by peace, unity, and prosperity.
On May 9, 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman made the Schuman Declaration, announcing the creation of a European Coal and Steel Community under the governance of a common High Authority.
Celebrating Unity in Diversity: Embracing European Values at Foodscale Hub
Europe Day is not just about the celebration of the founding document of European unity. It also serves as a day of reflection on principles and values deeply embedded in European nations. For instance, Europe Day emphasises the importance of democracy, human rights, and solidarity among European nations. On the same note, at Foodscale Hub, we prioritise nurturing these common values and aspirations while fostering an environment of inclusivity and cooperation regardless of cultural, linguistic, or national distinctions.
Furthermore, Europe Day celebrates the vibrant cultural diversity of the continent, recognising it as a source of strength and enrichment for the European community. Within the European Union, many different languages, traditions, and heritage form a mosaic of diversity. Being an European organisation, Foodscale Hub embraces this diversity, collaborating with individuals from varied backgrounds and appreciating their unique perspectives. We firmly believe that these differences contribute to the richness and beauty of our shared European identity.
Empowering Innovation: Foodscale Hub's Contribution to a Sustainable Agrifood Future
The European Union is committed to fostering prosperity through various research and innovation funding programs like Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, Interreg, and Erasmus +. These initiatives play a crucial role in driving progress across the whole continent. At Foodscale Hub, we are all very familiar with these programs since we actively participate in multiple research and innovation projects. Through our involvement, business development expertise, dissemination and communication experience and our innovative approach to exploitation and Open Calls, we shape the future of the food system.
Further, we understand that the food choices we make today shape the world we live in. Our mission is to develop solutions and innovative business models that revolutionise the agrifood sector and drive positive impacts in society. Together with our partners and all people involved in our projects, Foodscale Hub believes that collaboration, unity and solidarity lead to informed decisions that pave the way toward a more sustainable future.
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