1.
The role of an EC Representation in informing the public – experience in Hungary
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS
Communication instruments of the European Commission

2. Main actors in EU communication in the MSs
Representation of the European Commission (DG Communication)
Information Office of the European Parliament
Member State, governmental organizations (EU Communication Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; National Development Agency)
NGOs, civil society, local governments
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS

3. Role of the Representation
Two-way communication
Provision of information
To relay the policies, major events, measures and opinions of the European Commission to the Hungarian media, social and economic actors and the broader public. = To bring the Union closer to the citizens.
Providing information about the European Union across the country through its information networks, e.g. EUROPE DIRECT.
Listen to public opinion
To inform the Commission about developments in Hungary.
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS

4. EUROPE DIRECT information network
European Information Points
(20 offices at county level)
answering questions of the public on EU matters
Advising on grants, on international co-operations, projects
Organizing events
Conference speakers
Team Europe Hungary (28 members), includes experts of the various funds and programs
EURO TEAM
European Documentation Centers
Supporting research and teaching on EU matters
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS

5. Main actions of the Representation in Budapest
Pilot Representation (Action Plan on Communication)
Conferences e.g. Constitution
Stakeholder forums, e.g. SMEs,, Transparency Initiative, etc.
Media briefings, press conferences
Mass events: 9th May, 50th Anniversary
Supporting of stakeholders in EU communication: Radio and TV grants, jour fixe, European Studies series
Public opinion polls
Focus: Students, 2006 Create blue!, 2007 School Days, Universal Europe
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS

6. Europe Day Events
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NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS

7. Actions linked to Structural Funds
Conference on the use of the Structural Funds in Hungary, 19th January 2008 with the participation of Commissioner Hübner
„50 years integration at 50 location” public forums: strategy-creation of local communities
Group visits to Brussels: development experts
Tender-writing training for the ED relays
Stakeholder forums
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS

8. Thank you for you attention!
Kinga Kollár
EC Representation in Budapest
TELLING THE STORY
NOVEMBER 2007, BRUSSELS