EUROPA - The EU at a glance - The symbols of the EU

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EUROPA > The EU at a glance > The symbols of the EU

The European flag

The 12 stars in a circle symbolise the ideals of unity, solidarity and harmony among the peoples of Europe.

The European anthem

The melody comes from the Ninth Symphony by Beethoven. When used as the European anthem, it has no words.

United in diversity

This is the motto of the EU.

Europe Day, 9 May

The ideas behind the European Union were first put forward on 9 May 1950 by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman. So 9 May is celebrated as the EU’s birthday.

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