Developments in European information issues: Networks and relays – Services – Products, March 2001

Governance website further developed

Governance is on the key priorities list of the Prodi Commission and a White Paper is due to be made public by summer 2001. In the latter part of 2000 the Governance website was launched at http://europa.eu.int/comm/governance/index_en.htm. Even in its embryo state it was clear that this would be an important resource. A new version has now been made available at the same address, reflecting the new banner style that is appearing elsewhere on Europa. The site charts the progress towards the new White Paper and seems to be aiming to be a model of openness and transparency. It offers a wide range of documents and studies in full text, for example the work programme “Enhancing democracy in the European Union” together with speeches, reviews and other publications. However it is also possible to participate in the debate, contribute opinions and register to receive regular updates of the Governance Newsletter by e-mail. The home page includes a news button which brings up information on what is new on the site, currently details of public hearings due to be held this month. Clear menu options lead to other parts of the site which, in addition to the above, contains good background information about the governance team, a set of useful links to other sites and resources, and helpful, detailed information about the six work areas which are the responsibility of twelve working groups. These work areas include, for example, decentralisation, EU and world governance, and the participation of civil society. For each area there is a good collection of full text material and links as well as a statement of the terms of reference of the working group and background information on the authors' credentials. This will continue to be a key resource for those following the governance debate.

European Central Bank's euro site

As the launch date for the new currency comes closer the campaign to prepare and familiarise future users of the euro banknotes and coins is given added impetus by the new website of the European Central Bank at http://www.euro.ecb.int/en.html/. The currency is due to come into circulation on 1 January 2002. On the ECB's website there is a wealth of useful information, both historical and practical, to ease the introduction. Recognising the euro, examples of the notes and coins, an outline of the route from design to distribution, help for the visually impaired and conversion rates are just some of the obvious features, but there is information too on the timetable for the changeover programme in each of the participating member states and advice on travelling in the euro zone. For organisations there is guidance on security and training for those who handle cash. The background section covers the history and evolution of the euro as well as an explanation of the European system of central banks. News and events too have a section with the option of registering for an e-mail press release service. The fun part of the site however is the children's zone where a number of games can be played or downloaded.