In the long run, we can only preserve peace in Europe if we also preserve the European Union.
Analysis
Merkel's claim aligns with historical and political consensus that the EU, through economic and political integration, has significantly contributed to peace in Europe post-WWII. The EU's creation was partly motivated by preventing future conflicts among European nations. Her statement is a normative but widely accepted view among European leaders.
Background
Europe Day (May 9) commemorates the Schuman Declaration (1950), which proposed the European Coal and Steel Community to prevent war by integrating key industries. The EU has since expanded as a peace project, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012 for advancing reconciliation and democracy.
Verdict summary
Angela Merkel's statement accurately reflects the EU's role in maintaining peace in Europe.
Sources consulted
— European Union Official Website - History of the EU (https://europa.eu/european-union/about-eu/history_en)
— Nobel Prize - 2012 Peace Prize to the EU (https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/2012/press-release/)
— Bundesregierung - Merkel's 2019 Europe Day Speech (https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-en/news/merkel-europe-day-2019-1655434)