Exhibition opening and book launch in London

The Otto von Habsburg Foundation and the Embassy of Hungary in London are organising a joint event in memory of Otto von Habsburg, celebrating his life and heritage.

The connection between Otto von Habsburg and Britain predates the former Crown Prince’s first visit to the United Kingdom. Following World War I, King George V, concerned that the Habsburgs might suffer the same fate as the Romanovs, assigned one of his officers to personally ensure the well-being and security of Charles I and his family on his behalf. Despite the British and the Austro-Hungarian Empire having been wartime enemies just three months earlier, this compassionate act demonstrated that dynastic relations had superseded previous hostilities. In the late 1930s, Otto von Habsburg developed a strong relationship with Winston Churchill, with whom he later shared a commitment to European cooperation and the preservation of democracy amidst totalitarian threats.

In addition to his interactions with the royal family, he maintained contact with various British dignitaries and political decision-makers. His deep understanding of European history and politics, combined with his diplomatic finesse, made him a valuable interlocutor for British politicians. As he transcended national interests and was fluent in English, he was also able to quickly establish contacts with various British representatives during his tenure in the European Parliament between 1979 and 1999. Otto’s vision of European integration, which emphasised respect for national sovereignties and diverse historical experiences, resonated with the positions of many British MEPs. This cooperation has built vital bridges between the UK and the rest of Europe and strengthened joint efforts to create a more cohesive and integrated continent.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication to the service of Europe, Otto von Habsburg received a number of distinctions and accolades in Britain, including the prestigious title of Freeman of the City bestowed upon him by The Worshipful Company of Gardeners in 2007. This honour served as a testament to Otto’s enduring legacy as a statesman, a visionary, and, above all, a tireless champion of European unity and peace.

Programme

17.00 Arrival, registration

17.30 Opening speech

Ferenc Kumin, Ambassador of Hungary to the United Kingdom

In preparation for the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union

17.40 Introducing the Otto von Habsburg Foundation – Book presentation

Gergely Prőhle, Director of the Otto von Habsburg Foundation

The work of the Foundation. The significance of Otto von Habsburg for Europe

Szilveszter Dékány, collection fellow of the Otto von Habsburg Foundation responsible for the photographic archive

          99 Years 99 Photos – Photographs from the Life of Otto von Habsburg

18.00 Exposés and exchange of memories

Eduard Habsburg-Lothringen, Ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See

Georg Habsburg-Lothringen, Ambassador of Hungary to France

William Fraser, Senior Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners

Moderator: Gergely Prőhle, Director of the Otto von Habsburg Foundation

          Reflections and questions

19.00 Reception

Musical interlude offered by Noémi Győri, flautist,
accompanied on piano by Dinara Klinton.

The event will be held in English.