Rediscovering Europe’s Founding Values: A Call to Action
As Europe celebrates its annual Europe Day on 9th May, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) and the president of the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI), are calling on the EU to reconnect with its foundational principles of peace, unity, and solidarity.
On this significant occasion, Bishop Mariano Crociata and Cardinal Matteo Zuppi penned an open letter to the EU, urging a reinvigoration of participation in shaping the future of the European Union amidst the myriad challenges it currently faces.
Europe Day commemorates the historic Schumann Declaration of 1950, which laid the groundwork for the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), eventually evolving into the European Union. This day serves to remind us of the core values of peace, freedom, solidarity, and unity that underpin the EU’s existence and progress.
However, in current times marked by resurging nationalism and populist sentiments, the EU’s values and achievements are under scrutiny. The open letter highlights the need for shared ideals to preserve Europe’s unity, especially in the face of crises such as the conflict in Ukraine, environmental challenges, and shifting global dynamics.
A Stronger and Closer Europe
Expressing a desire for a more robust EU that resonates with its citizens, Crociata and Zuppi emphasize the importance of a deeper connection between Europeans and their shared European identity.
“We are writing to you as we have a desire in our heart: that what you represent and what you are can be strengthened, that we all learn to feel you close to us, to feel you as a friend and not far nor unknown.”
The letter elaborates on the historical backdrop that led to the formation of the EU, applauding visionaries like Robert Schuman, Konrad Adenauer, and Alcide De Gasperi for their aspiration of a peaceful and cooperative Europe, inspired by Christian values.
“We cannot forget how, before you, we had been fighting for centuries endless wars whereby millions of people were killed.”
While acknowledging past milestones like the fall of the Berlin Wall and EU enlargement, the document stresses the need for institutional reforms to address contemporary challenges effectively.
Embracing the Future with Institutional Reforms
“You are a living body, so perhaps the time has come for new institutional reforms in order to allow you taking up today’s challenges.”
Amidst global conflicts and internal divisions, the letter advocates for the EU to assert its role in global affairs, championing peace, diplomacy, and ethical policies while upholding human dignity, welcoming migrants, and combatting injustice.
Looking ahead, the call for a renewed European humanism echoes Pope Francis’ vision of a Europe characterized by humanization, courage, and shared ideals, fostering a sense of hope and unity in the face of modern challenges.
As we approach the European elections, Crociata and Zuppi urge all citizens to actively participate, emphasizing the pivotal role of civic engagement in shaping the EU’s future direction.
Let us embrace this call to rediscover Europe’s founding values, fostering a stronger and more inclusive EU that can navigate the complexities of the contemporary world with unity, solidarity, and hope.
