Europe – A Promise Worth Defending

It is a true honor to join you in marking Europe Day — a celebration not only of peace and unity across our continent, but of the enduring project that is European cooperation.

Today, we reflect on the Schuman Declaration of 1950 — a bold and visionary proposal that transformed a continent divided by war into a union rooted in dialogue, solidarity, and shared prosperity.

Europe was never meant to be merely a market or a political structure — it was, and remains, a community of values.

Jean Monnet once wrote: “Europe will be forged in crises and will be the sum of the solutions adopted for those crises.” That statement is perhaps more relevant today than ever before.

Europe is once again being tested. Russia’s illegal, brutal, and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is a defining moment for our generation. It is not only an attack on the sovereignty of a European state — it is an attack on the principles that unite us: freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

Just two days ago, I had the privilege of being in Lviv, Ukraine, together with numerous European ministers. We were there not only to show solidarity, but to listen, to learn, and to reaffirm a simple truth: Ukraine’s struggle is our struggle. Not least, the importance of our meeting in Lviv was a contrast to another gathering happening 1400 kilometres further East, at the Red Square. But dear friends, we know that no parade can mask the crimes of the Russian regime.

In Ukraine’s heroic defense against Russia’s illegal aggression, Ukraine has turned to international law as their ally. Their fight for freedom and democracy is a fight for Europe itself.

The resilience of the Ukrainian people in the face of such suffering is humbling. Their commitment to a European future — to peace, democracy, and the rule of law — should inspire us all. It is also a reminder of the fact that peace cannot be taken for granted. We are entering a new era of geopolitics, one in which Europe must be prepared to take greater responsibility for its own security and stability.

That is why, as we celebrate Europe Day, we also look ahead. Tomorrow, I will travel to Luxembourg to participate in a ministerial meeting in the Council of Europe. Our task is clear: to safeguard European democracy – to ensure that Europe remains not only free, but secure. Not only prosperous, but prepared.

Dear all,

Jean Monnet`s words of Europe being forged in crises has proven to be true time and time again. It is encouraging how quickly the EU has adapted to a changing geopolitical landscape. From securing energy supplies and advancing the green transition to reinforcing our industrial competitiveness and building greater strategic autonomy — the response has been resolute and forward-looking.

And it is therefore only fitting that Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is this year’s recipient of the Charlemagne Prize. Her leadership and the Commission’s work in strengthening Europe’s unity and resilience deserve full recognition.

For Norway, our partnership with the European Union and its member states — our closest friends and neighbors — remains a cornerstone of our foreign policy.

In recent years, we have significantly deepened our cooperation on foreign policy, security, and defence. This includes our structured dialogue on security policy and the Joint Declaration on closer cooperation in these fields.

The message is clear: we are determined to stand shoulder to shoulder with Europe in building a more capable and integrated response to the threats we face. Whether it is countering hybrid threats, enhancing defence readiness, or strengthening cyber resilience - we are working to bring Norway and the EU even closer together in the service of a safer Europe.

But our commitment goes beyond defence. It extends to the heart of what makes Europe worth defending.

Democracy, human rights, and the rule of law are the foundation stones of our European community. And we must recognize that these values are under pressure — not only from external forces, but from within our own societies.

A democracy cannot thrive on elections alone. It requires a free and independent press, a functioning judiciary, strong institutions, vibrant civil society, and the protection of minority rights. These are the safeguards that protect freedom and ensure justice. We must defend them — actively, consistently, and without compromise.

That is also why we support the European Union’s enlargement process. When new candidate countries join the EU, they become part of our broader European family — not just through laws and markets, but through values. And with EU enlargement comes an extension of the European Economic Area — something Norway continues to support.

Despite the many challenges we face, I believe Jean Monnet would be impressed by how far Europe has come since 1950. But he would also remind us that what has been achieved must be defended — and built upon.

Let us remember: Europe is not simply a location on a map. It is a promise. A promise of cooperation over conflict. Of compromise over coercion. Of shared purpose over fear.

As we celebrate Europe Day, let us renew that promise. Let us stand together — for Ukraine, for democracy, and for a secure and free Europe.

Thank you — and gratulerer med Europadagen.