Schuman Declaration

The Schuman Declaration is the name of the May 9, 1950 public appeal by Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, to place France's and West Germany's coal and steel industries under joint management. Inspired by Jean Monnet, the declaration's goal was for France, West Germany, and other member states to share strategic resources in order to build a lasting peace in Europe. This led to the 1951 creation of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), first of the European Communities and predecessor of the European Union.

Related Topics:
May 9 - 1950 - Robert Schuman - French - Foreign Minister - West Germany - Coal - Steel - Joint - Management - Jean Monnet - 1951 - European Coal and Steel Community - European Union

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In addition, the plan was meant to stabilize the newly created Federal Republic of Germany. It was also to be seen as a sign of reconciliation between the two World War II adversaries, as opposed to the Treaty of Versailles following World War I which had imposed severe penalties and reparations on a defeated Germany that were considered humiliating.

Related Topics:
Federal Republic of Germany - World War II - Treaty of Versailles - World War I - Reparations

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The Schuman declaration is therefore considered by some as the beginning of Franco-German cooperation. Others believe that the true origin of this cooperation was the Elysée treaty of 1963 that was signed by Charles de Gaulle and Konrad Adenauer.

Related Topics:
Franco-German cooperation - 1963 - Charles de Gaulle - Konrad Adenauer

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In particular, the declaration specifies the creation of a higher authority independent of the national governments. It also mentions the prospect of a European federation: "Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity."

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In 1985, the Milan Summit of European Union leaders chose to commemorate this event by marking May 9 Europe Day.

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