On February 12th 2009, a second generation of the Europe-wide network of Europe Direct information centres was launched for the 2009 - 2012 period. The Europe Direct information network is one of the main tools of the European Commission to offer information to citizens at local level and to give feedback to the European Institutions. The new network will extend possibilities for citizens to get practical information and advice on exercising rights in the European Union.

Through its decision C (2008) 3938 of July 29th 2008, the Commission adopted by anticipation the 2009 work programme of DG Communication regarding grants for financing the host structures of Europe Direct information centres across the European Union.

On this basis, the European Commission Representations launched their national calls for proposals to select the host structures of the Europe Direct information centres for the period 2009 – 2012.

Tasks of the Europe Direct information centres set up by the host structures

The Europe Direct information centres set up by the host structures will provide citizens with information about the EU and act as pro-active communication actors stimulating debate and dialogue, thus contributing to the Commission's outreach at local level.

The centres will provide information services tailored to local needs through:

• Offering citizens information, advice, assistance and answers to queries about the   European Union's legislation, policies, programmes, and funding opportunities.
• Promoting public awareness of the Europe Direct Contact Centre, Europa website, and other information networks and contact points of the European Institutions, acting as a first-entry point for citizens.

Under the guidance of the European Commission through its Representations, the centres will help create a European Public Sphere, stimulating an informed debate of the Union’s objectives, policies and programmes through carrying out communication and awareness-raising activities such as:

• Organising events and developing information products for the general public or specific target groups.
• Collaborating with local and national institutional stakeholders.
• Cooperating and networking with local media.

The general public will therefore, be able to turn to one of the 500 information centres to get their specific questions on EU matters answered. The Europe Direct centres will also provide feedback from citizens to the EU institutions, and actively promote local and regional debate on EU topics.

Commission Vice-President Margot Wallström, in charge of Communication Strategy, highlighted how the re-launch of the renewed Europe Direct network is an important initiative in view of the upcoming European elections, in the Commission's  efforts to communicate more effectively on European issues, as “for the last four years, the Europe Direct information centres have been bridging the gap between the EU institutions and the general public”.

Hans-Gert Pöttering, President of the European Parliament, added in relation to this cooperation that “in June European citizens will decide who will represent them in the European Parliament for the next five years. MEPs vote on issues which affect us all – from consumer protection to regulation of the financial markets. But many people know little about their role. Europe Direct Information Centres can help citizens learn more, and in so doing, motivate them to use their vote."

The Europe Direct information network was first launched in 2005, providing services free of charge to the general public. The action grant for the host structure per centre, in form of a lump sum, will range from a minimum of 12,000 € per year to a maximum of 25,000 € per year, representing no more than 50% of the eligible expenses.