9 May – Europe Day: "It's not them and us, it’s you and me"

Various events are organised across Europe to celebrate 9 May - Europe Day. The main theme this year is intercultural dialogue. Through the celebrations, thousands of people will be able to explore the many faces of the EU.

European Commission Vice-President Margot Wallström said: "Europe Day is an occasion for the EU Institutions to show their human face and for people to see that Europe is about people, and not just institutions or legislation."

For the 22nd time this year on 9 May thousands of people across the European Union will celebrate Europe Day: the fact that Europe is more peaceful, democratic and united.

The date is significant because on 9 May 1950, France's then Foreign Minister, Robert Schuman, issued a statement known as the Schuman Declaration. In it he set out a vision for a more united Europe, and for the institutions needed to make it work.

This year's 9 May events will form part of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue with the theme: "It's not them and us, it’s you and me". They will celebrate the many strands of Europe's rich cultural mix, and promote dialogue between people from different cultures living in Europe.