Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel is among the first recipients of the European Order of Merit, a new distinction awarded by the European Parliament. The award recognizes, among other achievements, her significant contribution to European integration.
Merkel joins the ranks of other prominent figures honored with the distinction, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former Polish President Lech Wałęsa.
According to the European Parliament, the order introduced for the first time last year honors individuals who have made important contributions to European integration or to promoting European values. It is also the first award of its kind granted by an EU institution.
A multi-level award
Merkel, Zelenskyy, and Wałęsa are receiving the highest level of the award. Other recipients include several former presidents and prime ministers of EU member states, as well as figures such as former European Central Bank president Jean‑Claude Trichet.
The order also recognizes personalities from sports and culture, highlighting contributions beyond politics.
Merkel’s role in Europe
During her tenure as Chancellor of Germany from 2005 to 2021, Merkel was widely regarded as Europe’s crisis manager.
She participated in more than 100 summits of EU heads of state and government, overseeing major challenges including:
- The global financial crisis
- The Brexit
- The COVID‑19 pandemic
Her leadership during these crises played a major role in shaping the European Union’s response to political and economic challenges.
