Assertive Tone from Europe - "Karl Prize was awarded to a prominent figure advocating for Europe"
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, will receive the International Charlemagne Prize in Aachen, Germany, on Thursday. The commission chief is being honored for her strong, global representation of European interests.
The ceremony will take place in the city hall of Aachen and will be attended by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and King Felipe VI of Spain, among other dignitaries. The guests include former laureates such as Jean-Claude Juncker, former Prime Minister of Luxembourg, and numerous politicians. Small protests are expected in the city center, centered on the Supply Chain Act and concerns about EU and German arms plans.
The Charlemagne Prize, awarded annually since 1950, is a distinction honoring efforts towards European unity and integration. Past recipients include Winston Churchill, Angela Merkel, and Bill Clinton, as well as Pope Francis. In 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people were recipients of the prize.
Established by the citizens of Aachen, the prize is significant for promoting peace, cooperation, and unity on the European continent. In 2025, von der Leyen was awarded the prize for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict with Russia.
Charlemagne PrizeAachen, GermanyUrsula von der LeyenEUAwardEuropeFriedrich MerzKing Felipe VISpainProtestSupply Chain ActArmament plans
The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, is set to receive the Charlemagne Prize in Aachen, Germany, known for its significance in promoting peace, cooperation, and unity on the European continent. The ceremony will be attended by various dignitaries, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, King Felipe VI of Spain, and numerous politicians. However, small protests are anticipated in the city center, focusing on issues such as the Supply Chain Act and concerns about EU and German arms plans.
