The life of Alcide De Gasperi is described as a testament to the potential of every individual who dares to dream, takes bold action, and has the courage to stay the course. This reflects the essence of European history, as De Gasperi understood the need to secure a future for Italy by also securing a future for Europe. He realized the importance of finding compromises while remaining firm on the values he believed in, which are still held by many today. These sentiments were expressed by the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, during a ceremony commemorating the 70th anniversary of De Gasperi’s death, attended by President Sergio Mattarella.
Metsola emphasized the idea that there is more to gain than to lose for nations and peoples when they come together. She highlighted the importance of unity in diversity and the shared potential that can be realized when differences are embraced. She stated that being Italian and European are not contradictory concepts, much like being Roman and Italian. This vision of Europe as envisioned by De Gasperi is one of cooperation leading to shared prosperity, a vision that must continue to be built upon for future generations. Metsola also addressed the issue of migration, calling for a humane approach centered on individuals rather than faceless statistics.
In addition to reflecting on De Gasperi’s legacy and vision for Europe, Metsola touched on the issue of migration and the need to address it with compassion and solidarity. She stressed the importance of implementing policies that prioritize those in genuine need, while also focusing on the repatriation of asylum seekers who do not qualify for protection. Metsola also spoke about the importance of fostering a culture of mutual understanding, echoing De Gasperi’s calls to protect against internal threats and promote unity among Europeans.
The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, reiterated the unwavering support of the European Union for Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts. She emphasized the significance of standing with Ukraine not just out of Christian charity, but also to defend Europe, its way of life, and the international rules-based order. Metsola underlined the importance of maintaining solidarity with Ukraine in the face of external pressures and threats to European stability.
The 70th anniversary of Alcide De Gasperi’s death was marked by a commemorative ceremony organized by the Chamber of Deputies in collaboration with the De Gasperi Foundation. De Gasperi was praised as one of the founding fathers of the Italian Republic, known for his role in the post-war reconstruction of the country and his contributions to a unified and peaceful Europe. The event featured musical performances, speeches by institutional representatives, and a theatrical reading of De Gasperi’s words from the first session of the Constituent Assembly, delivered by actor and director Michele Placido. Family members, including De Gasperi’s daughter and grandchildren, were also in attendance.
The commemoration of Alcide De Gasperi’s legacy serves as a reminder of his enduring impact on Italian democracy and European integration. The event not only honored his achievements but also underscored the need to uphold the values of unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity that he championed. As Europe continues to navigate pressing challenges, including migration and external threats, De Gasperi’s vision of a united and diverse continent remains a guiding principle for building a more inclusive and resilient future. Through collective action and a commitment to upholding democratic values, the spirit of De Gasperi’s legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to strive for a more peaceful and prosperous Europe.
