A force for good

Today celebrations take place across the European Union (EU) to mark Europe Day, an annual celebration of peace and unity across the continent.

Each year thousands of people take part in visits, debates, concerts and other events to mark the day and raise aware

ness about the EU. The event is especially relevant this year given the UK’ s departure, whenever or even if ever that may be.

The day is also known as Schuman Day, commemorating the declaration 69 years ago on 9 May ,1950 by the French foreign minister, Rob

ert Schuman, which marked the first move towards the creation of the EU. Europe had just come out of the Second World War, a conflict that had nearly destroyed the continent and split it between two spheres of influence.

In a desire not to repeat such destruction, there was a great deal of momentum towards European co-operation, which would make war between Europe’ s nations unthinkable.

The EU ensures that member states co - operate peace - fully. And the creation of the single market has also made us richer than we would have been without it. The EU has also been an inspiration for those who are fighting for the values of freedom and democracy across the world.

The European Union has been under attack from populists both inside and outside, trying to undermine its achievements and values. So as we prepare to leave it does no harm to be reminded of what we have enjoyed – the precious gift of more than 70 years of peace and stability – and the role of the EU in delivering this achievement must be recognised and celebrated.

ALEX ORR Marchmont Road, Edinburgh