Former European Parliament President Klaus Hänsch dies
Klaus Hänsch, who led the European Parliament from 1994 to 1997, has died at 87. Current EP President Roberta Metsola confirmed the news and paid tribute to his optimism and dedication to Europe.
Klaus Hänsch, a former President of the European Parliament, has passed away, current Parliament President Roberta Metsola confirmed on Wednesday. In a social media post, Metsola said the Parliament mourns the loss of a champion of Europe, noting that he took office at a time of profound change for the continent and never stopped believing in the potential of the European project.
Metsola recalled their last meeting just a few weeks ago, when Hänsch's unwavering optimism shone through as he described his efforts to promote civic engagement and nurture young European leaders. "Europe will miss him. May he rest in peace," she added.
Hänsch, a German Social Democrat, served as Parliament president from 1994 to 1997 and was a Member of the European Parliament from 1979 to 2009. He was 87 years old.
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