King Felipe VI presented the 19th Carlos V European Prize to the European Committee of the Regions at the Monastery of San Jerónimo [1], [3].

The award highlights the importance of regional and local governance in shaping the European Union. By recognizing the Committee, the prize emphasizes the necessity of territorial participation in high-level decision-making to ensure that EU policies reflect the needs of diverse local populations.

The ceremony took place in Cuacos de Yuste, Cáceres [2], [4]. While the event was originally scheduled for May 12, 2026 [1], some reports indicated a postponement to May 25, 2026, following an electoral complaint from the party Adelante Andalucía [5].

Granted by the Yuste European and Ibero-American Academy Foundation, the prize acknowledges the Committee's specific role in integrating territories into the EU's legislative and administrative frameworks [1], [3]. The 19th edition of the award continues a tradition of honoring entities and individuals who promote the values of the European project [3].

Reports on the specific recipient of the award varied across outlets. Some sources identified the European Committee of the Regions as the entity receiving the honor [2], while others noted that Juanma Moreno, a co-president of the Committee, would collect the prize [6]. A separate report suggested the award was presented to Mario Draghi [7]. However, the primary event focus remained on the Committee's institutional role in regional representation.

The Monastery of San Jerónimo served as the backdrop for the proceedings, maintaining the historical significance of the location for the annual award [2], [4].

“The award recognizes the role of the Committee in the participation of territories in the decision-making of the EU.”

The presentation of the Carlos V Prize to the Committee of the Regions signals a strategic emphasis on subsidiarity within the European Union. By honoring the body responsible for regional representation, the award underscores the tension and balance between centralized EU authority in Brussels and the practical implementation of policy at the local level across member states.