Adopting the euro: economic and communication challenges

The relatively smooth introduction of euro banknotes and coins in 2002 was due in large part to well-planned preparations involving governments, public administrations and representatives of business and consumers. Examples of good practice are being shared with EU-10 administrations as they prepare for the euro; however, there are also lessons to be learned. As opinion polls show, many euroarean citizens believe the euro brought price increases – a perception that does
not match with the economic reality and has its origins in understandable but subjective judgements. Ensuring the public in the EU-10 is well informed will be critical to meeting concerns about price inflation – a series of high-level conferences is being held to address these issues.