Reasons given by the Board of the Society
for awarding the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen
to the President of the European Commission
Dr Ursula von der Leyen
The European Union faces historic challenges: geopolitical threats, economic change, climate protection and digital transformation. As President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen has played a key role in keeping Europe united, resilient and capable of action.
Whether in the pandemic, in dealing with Russia's war of aggression or in strengthening the European economy, she has represented Europe's interests with determination and strategic vision and set a decisive course for the future.
Ursula von der Leyen was awarded the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen for her outstanding commitment to European unity, security and competitiveness on 29 May 2025.
- External threats – Russia's war and geopolitical tensions
- Internal challenges – populism, anti-Semitism, anti-European sentiment
- Economy & innovation – need for a boost to innovation
- COVID-19 – vaccine procurement & economic aid
- War in Ukraine – support & sanctions
- Energy crisis – REPowerEU plan for independence from Russia
Career
1958
Born in Brussels
Relocated to Ilten near Hanover
1970
1980
Started medical studies
Passed state medical examination, obtained medical licence, began working as a junior doctor
1987
1990
Joined the Christian Democratic Union (CDU)
Awarded doctorate in medicine (Dr. med.)
1991
1992-1996
Lived in California and became a guest student at Stanford University
Earned a Master of Public Health from the University of Hanover
2001
2003
State Minister for Social Affairs, Women, Family and Health in Lower Saxony (Cabinet Wulff)
Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth
2005
2009
Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs
Federal Minister of Defence
2013
since 2019
President of the European Commission
