Key facts
- Klaus Hänsch, former President of the European Parliament, has died at 87.
- He was a German Social Democrat.
- Hänsch served as Parliament president from 1994 to 1997.
- He was a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 1979 to 2009.
- Current Parliament President Roberta Metsola confirmed his death and paid tribute to his work.
Klaus Hänsch, who served as President of the European Parliament from 1994 to 1997, has died at the age of 87. His death was confirmed by current Parliament President Roberta Metsola. Metsola described Hänsch as a "champion of Europe" who took office during a period of significant change for the continent. She recalled his "unwavering optimism" and his efforts to promote civic engagement and nurture young European leaders. Hänsch, a member of the German Social Democrats, was a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for three decades, serving from 1979 to 2009. He was 87 years old at the time of his passing.