Aachen, Germany – May 29, 2025 — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was awarded the prestigious International Charlemagne Prize in Aachen on Thursday, where she called for the development of an “independent Europe” in response to growing global instability.
The award ceremony, held on Germany’s Ascension Day public holiday, drew high-level attendees including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who delivered remarks honoring von der Leyen’s commitment to European unity. The Charlemagne Prize is one of Europe’s oldest and most distinguished honors, presented annually to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to European integration.
Vision for Europe: Sovereignty in the Face of Disorder
In her acceptance speech, von der Leyen laid out a vision for a stronger and more sovereign Europe, warning that the international order has rapidly devolved into “international disorder.”
“The next great era, our next great unifying project, must be about an independent Europe,” von der Leyen told the audience gathered in Aachen’s historic Town Hall. “Not just for the EU, but for the entire continent.”
Von der Leyen’s remarks come at a time of heightened geopolitical tension. Citing the Russian invasion of Ukraine and concerns about the reliability of the NATO alliance, particularly under former U.S. President Donald Trump’s influence, she emphasized the urgent need for Europe to “take matters into our own hands.”
“We are once again living in a world marked by imperial ambitions and wars of aggression,” she said. “Europe must be capable of standing on its own when necessary—defending its values, economy, and people.”
Defense, Democracy, and Expansion
The European Commission President highlighted defense, economic competitiveness, and democratic resilience as key priorities for the continent. She also reiterated support for the European Union’s enlargement, calling the possible accession of Ukraine, Moldova, and countries in the Western Balkans “the next historic reunification.”
“These nations belong to our European family,” von der Leyen said. “Their future lies in the European Union, and their integration is a matter of strategic importance for our shared security and prosperity.”
A Symbolic Moment in Aachen
The Charlemagne Prize has long served as a symbol of European unity, and von der Leyen joins a distinguished list of past laureates including Winston Churchill, Emmanuel Macron, and Pope Francis. The prize was established in 1950 in honor of Charlemagne, the Frankish king who unified much of Western Europe in the early Middle Ages and made Aachen his imperial capital.
This year’s award comes as Europe faces new tests of unity and resolve. With war on its borders, energy transitions underway, and democratic institutions under strain, von der Leyen’s speech served as both a call to action and a reaffirmation of the European project.
Outlook
Von der Leyen’s address in Aachen has added weight as she continues to play a central role in shaping Europe’s response to global challenges. With European Parliament elections looming in 2025 and discussions ongoing about her potential bid for a second term, her message of strategic independence and unity may set the tone for the EU’s next political chapter.
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen AP pic Via FMT
