e-conference : Brilliant European Women

Let us celebrate Brilliant European Women as a symbol of Europe’s Day and Labour’s Day

Do you know Edith Cavell? Not the hospital in Brussels. No.

We are speaking about the British nurse who saved soldiers’ lives from both sides during WW I in Belgium and helped some 200 allied soldiers to escape to the Netherlands.

For these heroic acts, she was sentenced to death. Cavell’s execution in 1915 received worldwide condemnation.

Her story demonstrates her deep humanity and ability to see soldiers and civilians from neighbouring countries as persons worth saving.

In order to celebrate the 9th May, this year, we would like to share with you the story of pioneering women who have contributed to shaping Europe. You will discover their actions and their lives, in the fields of care with Edith Cavell, of science with Maria Sklodowska – Curie and culture with Melina Mercouri to give reason to the thought of Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers, who said: « If I had to do it again, I would start with culture ». This humanity and this desire to make full use of their knowledge and their skills for all men and women in Europe were shared by other remarkable women.