Lower Austrian Christmas tree illuminates the European Parliament!

Lower Austrian Christmas tree illuminates the European Parliament!

Strasbourg, Frankreich - A hint of tradition blew on December 4, 2024 through the European Parliament as the Kilber EU member Alexander Bernhuber for the solemn overhang traditional Lower Austrian Christmas tree. The festive highlight of the event was the blessing of the tree by Father Altmann Wand from the parish association Pielachtal, supported by the mayor of Hofstetten-Grünau, Arthur Rasch, and his wife Anita. This symbol for the spiritual and cultural exchange within the EU attracted numerous eyes and ears and created a special ambience in the institution, which has become more and more important in European legislative since its foundation on September 10, 1952.

The European Parliament is one of the central institutions of the European Union and plays an important role in the legislative process. With 720 members (after the elections in June 2024), it is the second largest democratic representation of the world. This institution not only has the task of adopting EU laws, but also to exercise control over the European Commission. In the last legislative period, there were increased efforts that the MEPs (members of the European Parliament) also have to talk about an important word when selecting commission presidents and important legislative measures. Important decisions are no longer made in the quiet closet, but with direct participation of the MPs, which strengthens the understanding of democracy within the EU and at the same time underlines their relevance.

This week of contemplation and tradition shows that the European Parliament is not only a place of legislation, but also promotes cultural life. The symbolic handover of the Christmas tree underlines the connection between the Member States and the endeavor to live and celebrate common values, while the EU's political structures are developing. The parliament thus remains a dynamic place, in which culture, tradition and modern politics come together and work towards a common Europe.