Solidarity as a foundation for European integration

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"JoseManuel Barroso
President of the European Commission
Solidarity as a foundation for European integration
Conference “Solidarnosc to Freedom”
Varsaw, 30 August 2005
Conference “Solidarnosc to Freedom”
Varsaw, 30 August 2005

Professor Geremek, ladies and gentlemen

Not every anniversary is a cause for celebration, just as not every birthday is a cause for celebration. But today we can and should celebrate 25 years of Solidarność, and I am honoured as President of the European Commission to participate in this event.

I do not think this is the last anniversary of Solidarność which will be celebrated. I suspect that in 100, 200 years time what happened in Poland in 1980 will still be recognised as a very significant event in the history of Europe after the Second World War. It is one of those moments which will continue to grow in importance as it is viewed through the telescope of history.

Why? Because of the courage and determination of Solidarity’s leaders, which provided such an inspiration to so many. Because it showed the evidence of vibrant democratic life beneath the dull mud of communist dictatorship. Because Solidarność did not wither and die. It spread its roots wide and deep beneath the surface of political and social life in Poland, until it blossomed in the peaceful revolution of 1989. "