Europe is engaged in a long weekend of celebrations after commemorating Victory Day yesterday and today commemorates Europe Day.
Yesterday, on Friday, Europe commemorated Victory in Europe Day marking the Allied victory over Nazism in 1945 and the end of the Second World War in Europe. Commemorative ceremonies and military parades were held in major European capitals including London and Paris, where French President Emmanuel Macron attended ceremonies beneath the Arc de Triomphe honouring veterans and fallen soldiers.
In the United Kingdom, commemorations included military ceremonies, remembrance services and public events marking the sacrifices made during the war against Nazi Germany. Victory Day continues to be observed across much of Europe as a symbol of the defeat of fascism and the liberation of the continent from Nazi occupation.
Today, on May 9, Europe Day commemorates the Schuman Declaration delivered in 1950 by French foreign minister Robert Schuman, which proposed the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community. The initiative later evolved into what became the modern European Union. Europe Day is celebrated annually across the EU as a symbol of European integration, peace and cooperation following the devastation of the Second World War.
Across the continent, official buildings and landmarks were similarly lit in the European Union’s colours as institutions marked the occasion with concerts, speeches and public events celebrating European solidarity. Canada also joined the celebrations, with the Niagara Falls illuminated in blue in honour of Europe Day and European unity.
Newsroom
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