Robert Schuman: man, Christian democratic politician, supporter of European integration

The integration of the European continent essentially took place after the end of the Second World War. It was possible as several countries had recognised that this could contribute to the economic recovery of Europe and help avoid a similar conflict in the future. In 1951, the European Coal and Steel Community was established, followed by other organisations that gave rise to the current European Union. The integration process would probably not have been possible without the people particularly involved in cooperation between states (often referred to as the fathers of Europe). One of them was Robert Schuman, a man of the Franco-German border, a Christian Democracy politician, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of France, completely dedicated to public service. In 1950, he presented the so-called Schuman Declaration, which outlined an idea for integration. His plan was approved and put into action. Schuman’s biography reveals the complexity of European problems in the 20th century, but also testifies to the fact that in politics it is possible to remain a man of integrity, a deep believer, faithful to values. This is confirmed by the process of Schuman’s beatification, started in 1990.