Solidarity hailed as inspiration for world

A quarter of a century after its birth, Poland's Solidarity remains an inspiration for Europe and pro-democracy movements round the world, leaders and activists said on the eve of the union's 25th anniversary.

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said the spirit of solidarity which was the driving force of the 1980s non-violent revolt that led to the overthrow of communism was still much needed in today's European Union.