European Citizens' Prize


In 2008, the European Parliament introduced the European Citizen's prize. It is intended to reward on annual basis individuals or groups who have particularly distinguished themselves in strengthening European integration by the expression of European cooperation, openness to others and practical involvement in the development of mutual understanding. It is awarded upon nominations of Members of European Parliament.

The Prize

The was launched by the European Parliament in 2008 to recognise exceptional achievements by Europeans. In that year, 37 people from 19 member states were selected for the prize in honour of their good work. They received their medals in national award ceremonies and they had the chance to showcase their work and meet MEPs at the European Parliament in Brussels on 7–8 November. This year's winners worked in a variety of areas. Some of their projects were linked to theme of the European year, which this year is about active ageing and solidarity between generations. The Citizens' Prize can be given for activities that either facilitate cross-border cooperation within the EU or promote better mutual understanding and closer integration between citizens and member states. It can also be awarded for day-to-day activities reflecting the values enshrined in the EU's charter of fundamental rights. The laureates can be citizens, groups, associations or organisations. Every year each MEP has the right to nominate one candidate.

2008 winnershttp://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:C:2009:108:0002:0003:EN:PDF