The European Union has awarded a new European Order of Merit medal. The recipients include Angela Merkel, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, U2, and Greek basketball star Giannis Antetokounmpo. The new distinction was created to honor individuals who have contributed significantly to European integration and values.
In the highest category, 'Distinguished Members,' honorees include former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, former Polish President Lech Wałęsa, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Other categories feature figures like Moldovan President Maia Sandu and the Irish band U2. The medal was established last year on the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.
Up to 20 awards can be given annually. The official ceremony will occur during the European Parliament plenary session in Strasbourg from May 18 to 21. ' The exact differences between award categories and the total number of recipients remain unspecified.