Oral history interviews
With the aim of complementing and illustrating its archives, in 2009 the Historical Archives decided to launch a project to collect oral memory. Initially dedicated to collecting testimonies of former Presidents of the European Parliament, the project has gradually expanded to also include former Secretaries-General, MEPs and politicians who played a major role in European construction. These video sequences are unique and exceptional testimonies of the men and women involved and key players in the history of Europe.
Records are available for all Presidents from 1979 to 2004, and Secretary-Generals from 1986 to 2007, whether an interview or a compilation of audiovisual material and documentation - read about our methodology below.
Our methodology
A thorough analysis of the interviewee's archives was conducted, after which a list of questions about the main events and actions that marked the mandate were prepared. These questions were submitted to the interviewee and a filmed interview was then conducted in their native language. Extracts of the interview have been compiled and presented here with additional historical information and relevant documents to facilitate a better understanding of the topics discussed in the interview. In cases where a person was not available for an interview (by declining the offer, or as a result of death) a montage with audiovisual archives has been created. These videos will feature subtitling and/ or transcription in English, French and German shortly.
Lord Henry Plumb
Lord Plumb's presidency (1987-1989) saw important milestones for European Parliament and European integration, from the Single European Act to developments in the European Union's external relations.
Pat Cox
From the 2004 enlargement of the EU to important institutional reforms, the presidency of Pat Cox (2002-2004) saw major developments for the Union and the Parliament.
Enrique Barón Crespo
Enrique Barón Crespo's presidency (1989-1992) was a time of dramatic change in Europe, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the breakup of Yugoslavia, preparation for the Maastricht Treaty and moves towards greater European political union.
Egon A. Klepsch
From the entry into force of the Maastricht Treaty to EU enlargement, President Egon A. Klepsch's mandate was a decisive time for the European Parliament and EU.