EU Commissioner Michael McGrath receives Trinity European Laureate Award
Posted on: 25 June 2026
The award was presented to Commissioner McGrath by Trinity’s Provost Dr Linda Doyle at an event in Brussels designed to celebrate the values that underpin democratic societies and the importance of thoughtful leadership in an increasingly complex world.
European Commissioner Michael McGrath this week received a Trinity European Laureate Award in recognition of his contribution to democracy. The award was presented to Commissioner McGrath (below on left) by Trinity’s Provost Dr Linda Doyle at an event in Brussels held in partnership with Teneo, designed to celebrate the values that underpin democratic societies and the importance of thoughtful leadership in an increasingly complex world.
The Brussels location underscored both Commissioner McGrath’s contribution to democratic leadership and Trinity’s commitment to engaging with conversations that matter across Europe. Michael McGrath, European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, has developed the European Democracy Shield, a strategic framework designed to strengthen democratic resilience across Europe.
With the start of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union approaching next week, the occasion offered an opportunity to reflect on the importance of democracy, collaboration, and shared European values.
The European Laureate Awards form part of a broader programme of events at Trinity marking Ireland’s forthcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Earlier this week, the Trinity Long Room Hub also presented a Trinity European Laureate Award to Professor Maria Leptin, President of the European Research Council (pictured below on right).
Presented again by Trinity College Dublin Provost Dr Linda Doyle, the award recognised Professor Leptin's outstanding contribution to European research and research policy.
ENDS