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European symbols (2/2)
This sheet presents the European motto and its meaning. It also presents Europe Day and its role.
Key points of the sheet
- The motto of the European Union is "United in diversity" (Unie dans la diversité). It has been its motto since 2000.
- This motto shows how Europeans came together by creating the European Union. The aim is to share peace and prosperity, while respecting their diverse cultures, traditions and languages.
- The motto is translated into all the official languages of the European Union. It appears in official speeches and educational documents.
- Every year, on 9 May, all member countries celebrate Europe Day with events. This date marks the anniversary of the "Schuman declaration" of 9 May 1950.
- This day has several aims. One aim is to recall the values on which the European Union is founded.
- It aims to help people discover Europe through cultural, educational and civic events. It also aims to strengthen the feeling of belonging to a common space.
Words to know
- United in diversity (Unie dans la diversité)
- It has been the motto of the European Union since 2000.
- Europe Day (Journée de l’Europe)
- It is a celebration on 9 May every year in all the countries of the European Union.
- Schuman declaration (déclaration Schuman)
- It is a text of 9 May 1950, a founding text of European integration.
- motto (devise)
- The motto of the European Union is "United in diversity".
Test yourself: 3 questions
Since what year has the European Union had the motto "United in diversity"?
In French, the language of the exam: Depuis quelle année l'Union européenne a-t-elle la devise « Unie dans la diversité » ?
The motto "United in diversity" has been used since 2000.
Which text does Europe Day commemorate?
In French, the language of the exam: Quel texte la Journée de l'Europe rappelle-t-elle ?
9 May marks the anniversary of the Schuman declaration of 9 May 1950.
What is one aim of Europe Day?
In French, the language of the exam: Quel est un objectif de la Journée de l'Europe ?
One aim of this day is to strengthen the feeling of belonging to a common space.
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Questions on the ministry's list that rest on this sheet
- On what day is Europe Day celebrated?
- What is the motto of the European Union?
- On which day is Europe Day celebrated?
More in this topic (European institutions)
Source
Sheet “Les symboles européens (2/2)” of the French Ministry of the Interior: formation-civique.interieur.gouv.fr. Content published under the Etalab Open Licence 2.0. This page is a plain-language adaptation made by Hexaciv, which is not an official site: if in doubt, the ministry's text is the one that counts.
Ministry sheet read on 23 October 2026, still identical on 25 October 2026.