Europe Day is celebrated annually on the 9th of May in Kosovo and throughout the European continent. It marks the anniversary of the 'Schuman declaration' at a speech in Paris in 1950 when Robert Schuman, the then French foreign minister, set out his idea for a new form of political cooperation in Europe, which would make war between this region's nations inconceivable. In a country like Kosovo, which aspires to join the European Union, this day gains particular significance and is celebrated with utmost grandeur.
On Europe Day, Kosovo showcases its commitment to European values and aspirations. The day is marked by a range of activities, events, and ceremonies emphasizing the country's European integrative path. These include public debates, concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural activities that aim at promoting the understanding of the European Union's policy, history, and diversity among Kosovar citizens. Europe Day has become a yearly highlight that brings the European spirit to the heart of Kosovo.
Interestingly, the celebration of Europe Day in Kosovo also serves as a tool for self-reflection. It caters to the notion – what it means to be European; reminding the citizens of Kosovo that European integration is not just about political and economic reforms, but it is essentially about endorsing and living up to the shared European values of democracy, human rights, justice, and freedom. The endeavour to become part of the EU is deemed as a prime pursuit, and Europe Day stands as a symbol of hope for a brighter European future for Kosovo.