european parliament On the first anniversary of his death on January 11, 2022, this Wednesday honors former president David Sassoli. As he led the parliament through the most challenging days of the pandemic, he opened the doors of the European Parliament to those most in need, demonstrating a faith in progressive values that he lived out even in the hardest moments.
“A year ago Europe lost a leader, a champion of democracy, and we lost a friend. David Sassoli, a man of faith, always had the ability to turn belief into action,” recalled his successor, Roberta Metsola, who now chairs the European Parliament.
At the commemoration ceremony, attended by about 200 deputies and staff, in the gallery where the portraits of the heads of institutions are displayed, the Hymn of Joy rang out today. Metsola laid a bouquet of white flowers before the portrait of the former Italian president, a moment that echoed across the chamber.
Sassoli passed away on January 11, 2022, at the age of 65, in an Italian hospital from complications linked to a dysfunctional immune system. Metsola, who served as acting president for a week after Sassoli’s unexpected death before her formal election, paid tribute to the Italian people and the parliament for continuing to operate remotely to process the most urgent pandemic-related measures and for steadfastly fighting inequality.
“He wanted a hopeful Europe. And as he said, we can be that hope when we do not ignore those in need, when we do not build walls at our borders, and when we actively resist all forms of injustice,” she added.
On social media, Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission, remembered Sassoli as a figure who reminded us of our guiding principles: a memory that shows us the path and a warning to those who fear Europe and its values. She recalled a question Sassoli asked long before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a question that now reads like a prophecy: “Why are authoritarian regimes so afraid of Europe? We do not wage war, we do not impose our model. So why? Our values frighten them.” Sassoli’s question has since echoed as a forecast about the power of democratic ideals.
One year after his death, Sassoli’s memory continues to resonate, warming hearts and guiding policy choices. A tweet from the European Union’s official channels echoed the sentiment, and other leaders joined in recalling his intelligence, vitality, and commitment to a more united Europe. Charles Michel, president of the European Council, wrote that a year later they miss him for his warmth and his clear-sighted thinking that remains with them. The message underscored Sassoli’s enduring influence as a leader who spoke honestly and led with conviction.
Iratxe García, who heads the European social democratic group, highlighted Sassoli’s unwavering advocacy for humane treatment of immigrants and the rights of LGBTI people. She affirmed that no predecessor had placed the home of European democracy so firmly at the service of those most in need. The sense of service and inclusion defined Sassoli’s approach to leadership, she suggested, a legacy that continues to inform current EU policy and debate.
❤️Today, many remember David Sassoli as the person who worked relentlessly for a more united and supportive Europe. He is remembered as someone who served the people until the very end, and his legacy continues to guide the European Parliament toward greater inclusivity and progress. The social media channels of the Parliament’s left-leaning groups reflected this ongoing respect, sharing messages that his memory remains a living force in the work of those who believe in a fairer Union.
During the early phase of the pandemic, Sassoli helped mobilize tangible support for those affected. He oversaw menus prepared by the kitchens of the European Parliament for people in need and health workers. He also directed measures to repurpose parts of the Parliament’s fleet and buildings in Brussels and Strasbourg so they could welcome patients and those in vulnerable positions. His practical actions during a time of crisis demonstrated a readiness to convert policy into immediate, real-world assistance.
In Brussels, the Church of Our Lady was made available for a service in memory of Sassoli, with the participation of Metsola, reflecting the deep sense of community and shared values that characterized his leadership. The ceremony affirmed a belief in a Europe that stands with those who are most in need and continues to strive toward a more humane and resilient union.