75 years of Schuman Declaration – Croatia and Europe: Unity, Peace, and Future

Today, on May 9, 2025, the Republic of Croatia joins in the celebration of Europe Day and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the creation of the European Union as we know it today.

This anniversary symbolizes seven and a half decades of commitment to peace, unity, democracy, and solidarity among the peoples of Europe.

The process was a response to the devastation of the Second World War and a firm commitment to ensuring that such tragedies never happen again. In the decades that followed, we witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall, the end of communist and authoritarian regimes, the creation of a single market, the Erasmus program, the introduction of the euro as a common currency, and the freedom of movement within the Schengen Area.
 
For Croatia, Europe Day holds special significance. Since joining the European Union in 2013, and subsequently entering the Schengen Area and the eurozone in 2023, the Republic of Croatia has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to the European path. The European project was not only our foreign policy objective—it deeply shaped the social and economic transformation of our country.
 
In today’s times of challenge—from security threats such as Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to climate change, the energy crisis, and global geopolitical tensions—the European Union must remain strong, united, and resolute. Croatia understands this deeply, as we ourselves know how precious freedom, sovereignty, and peace are—gained through the Homeland War and confirmed through international recognition in 1992.
 
The European Union is most effective when it acts in unity. That is why, in the future, it must remain open, inclusive, and in solidarity—ready to extend a hand to those who share European values. Croatia strongly supports the European aspirations of the countries of Southeast Europe, especially Bosnia and Herzegovina, with whom we share deep historical, cultural, and political ties. Enlargement is not just a technical process—it is a political message of faith in democracy, reform, and a European future.
 
Let this year's celebration of Europe Day be a celebration of all the values that unite us: peace, freedom, diversity, cooperation, and mutual respect. Europe is not a finished project, but a continuous process of building a better society for all its citizens.
 
The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs is once again marking Europe Day this year with a special program.
 
With pride, dignity, and faith in a shared future - Happy Europe Day!

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