The celebrations will take place in the presence of Queen Beatrix in the Ridderzaal in The Hague and will feature a varied cultural programme aimed at a wide audience. In his address, the Prime Minister will look back at the past fifty years and examine the challenges facing the European Union.

On the same day, the prize will be presented to the winner of the essay contest on Europe and a press conference will be held for the editors of school magazines. There will also be a debate on Europe with school pupils and a roundtable discussion with students.

• Programme of celebrations