Richard Demarco, the Scottish artist, academic, impresario and public intellectual was presented with the award of Scottish European of the Year for 2025 at a ceremony at the Scottish Parliament.
The presentation was made by Angus Robertson MSP, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture.
The Scottish European of the Year award is voted for by members of the European Movement in Scotland. Richard Demarco topped this year’s poll, beating distinguished nominees from media and politics.
Mr Robertson said. “I am delighted to be able to make this presentation to Richard Demarco, who has for decades been making an outstanding contribution to Scotland’s engagement with European culture.
“I am also thrilled to see that he is continuing to remain active and contribute to Scotland’s presence in the cultural landscape of Europe.”
The certificate awarded to Mr Demarco says:
‘In recognition of his lifelong commitment to European culture, his championing of the values of free expression through the Arts, his numerous contributions to enriching the cultural life of Edinburgh and Scotland, his internationalism and his belief in unity and peace across Europe.’
Richard Demarco said: “I thank the members of the European Movement in Scotland for this award and for lightening my spirits in these too often dark times.
“I have never been in doubt, given the entire history of Scotland, particularly as I take the Declaration of Arbroath as proof, that Scotland is distinctly part of Europe.”