Giannis Antetokounmpo among first recipients of the European Order of Merit

The European Parliament has announced the inaugural recipients of the newly established European Order of Merit, a distinction created to honor individuals who have contributed significantly to European integration and the promotion of European values. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola led the announcement in Strasbourg, noting that nominees were proposed by heads of state, heads of government, and parliamentary leaders. The order is divided into two categories, with Angela Merkel, Lech Walesa, and Volodymyr Zelenskyy named as Distinguished Members. Giannis Antetokounmpo was named as an Honorable Member of the order, recognizing his contributions to the European landscape. The selection committee included Roberta Metsola, Sophie Wilmes, Ewa Kopacz, Michel Barnier, Jose Manuel Barroso, Josep Borrell, and Enrico Letta. Additional recipients include Valdas Adamkus and Jerzy Buzek. The award serves to acknowledge those who have helped build the European Union by bridging divides and overcoming crises.