09 May 2025
Europe Day in Ukraine: A Shared Choice of Values and a Space for the Future
On May 9, Ukraine celebrates Europe Day together with the member states of the European Union. This state holiday was established by Presidential Decree No. 266/2023, signed on May 8, 2023. The document emphasizes:
“Recognizing the European identity of the Ukrainian people, with the aim of strengthening the unity of European nations, ensuring peace, security, and stability on the European continent, affirming our commitment to the ideals and values of democracy, and supporting initiatives of youth and other civil society organizations, I hereby proclaim the establishment of Europe Day in Ukraine to be observed annually on May 9, jointly with the member states of the European Union.”
Ukraine has clearly defined its political orientation: human rights, the rule of law, and democratic principles are the fundamental components of state policy. Even amid full-scale war, Ukraine maintains its political agency, fulfills international obligations, ensures the security of its partners, and continues advancing on the path to EU integration.
Crimea is an inseparable part of the Ukrainian state. Its de-occupation entails restoring a space aligned with the standards of the European Union, including the protection of the rights of Indigenous peoples, development of environmentally responsible territories, modernization of infrastructure, and ensuring security in the Azov–Black Sea region.
In 2007, residents of Crimea joined in celebrating Europe Day for the first time, beginning a tradition that continued in the following years. That year, a European village was set up along the Yalta promenade, where EU countries were represented by their embassies, hosted language workshops, public debates, exhibitions, and a concert featuring Ukrainian and British musicians. At the Livadia Palace, a strategic discussion took place as part of the Yalta European Strategy (YES), focusing on Ukraine’s prospects for EU membership.
Today, Ukraine’s EU accession and the return of temporarily occupied territories — including Crimea — are among the country’s top national priorities. This direction is supported by both Ukrainian society and international partners. Europe Day serves as a reminder of the political unity that should be realized in a de-occupied Crimea.
Happy Europe Day!