Aware of European identity of Ukrainian people, in order to strengthen the unity of European nations, to ensure peace, security and stability on the European continent, demonstrating commitment to the ideals and values of democracy, supporting the initiatives of youth and other public associations, on May 8, 2023, the Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 266/2023 was signed, according to which Europe Day in Ukraine is now celebrated annually on May 9 together with the states of European Union.
The starting point for establishing Europe Day is the Schuman Declaration. On May 9, 1950, in Paris, French Foreign Minister Robert Schumann called on France, Germany and other European countries to join their coal and steel industries (the basics of building up military equipment) and give them control of a new supranational structure. This became the “cornerstone of the European Federation.” Thanks to the unification of economic efforts and the distribution of the results achieved, European countries avoided the accumulation of military power against each other, which ensured peace in Europe.
In Ukraine, Europe Day has been celebrated since 2003. Given the events of Euromaidan and the signing by Ukraine of the Association Agreement with the EU in 2014, this holiday has acquired not just a symbolic meaning. In June 2022, Ukraine received EU candidate status. Now the key issue is the beginning of negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the European Union.
Ukrainians have already proved their European identity by their own struggle against the russian invaders. And the fact that today for the first time we celebrate Europe Day with the EU is very important. In addition, May 9, 2023 President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen was on an official visit to Kyiv.
We are part of a family of European states with common values and aspirations, and the Armed Forces of Ukraine stand firmly in defence of the entire Free Europe. Our way to the family of EU countries is an irreversible path, the European Union confirms by its actions – the future of Ukraine is in the EU. We are increasingly integrating into the European space, adapting national legislation to the relevant European one, implementing EU norms and standards. Therefore, we also want to return to the European family as soon as possible, to reintegrate into the cultural and value dimension of the European Union. Europe Day is of great importance, because for Ukrainians it is, in particular, a symbol of struggle for freedom and a European future, where policies are based on the welfare and rights of every citizen.
To celebrate this day, students of TSATU, take part in the Annual Europe Day Webquest, organized by the Department of Foreign Languages. It is both an educational and entertaining activity, which brings the European values to the youth of Ukraine. In the course of the quest students get to know the geography, history, religion and languages of European countries. Last but not least, after passing through all the stages of the quest, students show what they learned by taking part in a fun quiz on Kahoot! platform. The 3rd Annual Europe Day Webquest was highly appreciated by the participants. The Department of Foreign Languages thank the participants and look forward to next year’s celebration.
