The Commission has consistently made efforts to correct inaccurate or misleading information about all aspects of the EU, not just the crisis. These efforts include actions in the media and through websites which tackle particular issues (such as the EU budget) or country-specific situations (such as the work of the Representation in the UK). More recently, this work has expanded to the social media, with the ‘Setting the facts straight’ blog set up last year. The network of Europe Direct Information Centres (of which there are around 500 across the EU) also plays an important role in providing information locally.

The Commission has also sought to engage with people through the European Year of Citizens, the Europe for Citizens programme and the recent series of Citizens' Dialogues. Over 50 Dialogues have been held, covering all Member States, with most European Commissioners participating, usually alongside Members of the European Parliament and national, regional or local politicians.

The Commission believes that the governments of Member States could play a more prominent role in explaining Europe to citizens and in fostering the creation of a true European public space in which European issues are discussed from a European point of view. The Commission is already working with Member States to inform citizens, for instance via Europe around the corner. This web-based tool linking national webpages to the European website shows citizens how EU funds are being used on projects in their communities and regions.

OJ C 333, 24/09/2014