This briefing paper contains the text of the Robert Schuman lecture, given by Ms Robyn Archer AO on 19 August 2013 at the Australian National University. The annual lecture celebrates the remarkable achievements of European integration since its modest beginnings in the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951, announced in a declaration by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman. The Australian National University has recognised this achievement and foresight by coordinating the annual Schuman Lecture since 1996.