Mary Robinson Receives European Parliament’s New Order of Merit

Mary Robinson has received a new distinction from the European Parliament, recognising her contribution to democracy and the values shared by EU member states. The former Irish president was presented with the inaugural European Order of Merit during a visit to Dublin last week. Robinson was among around 20 people announced earlier this year as recipients of the honour. The first group also includes U2, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The award is intended to recognise people who have made significant contributions to democracy and the fundamental values set out in the EU treaties. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola presented the distinction to Robinson and paid tribute to her work in advancing women’s rights, defending democracy and championing human rights and climate justice internationally. Metsola said Robinson had spent a lifetime defending principles that are often easier to celebrate in speeches than to uphold in practice. She also credited Robinson with helping shape an Ireland that Europe sees as open, confident and outward-looking. Robinson said she was honoured to be among the first laureates. Reflecting on her time as president, she said she had served when Europe’s wounds were healing, and argued that Europe is needed now more than ever. She also pointed to peace, freedom, democracy and respect for human rights as ideals on which the EU was founded, saying they should continue to guide the building of Europe for future generations. The presentation adds a European Parliament honour to Robinson’s long public record. The award’s inaugural recipients span politics, music and public life, with the institution framing their recognition around contributions to democratic values and the principles of the European project.