91996E2486

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2486/96 by José Valverde López (PPE) to the Commission (25 September 1996)

Subject: Measures to popularize the use of the European Union flag

In the media-dominated world in which we live, the visual impact of symbols is crucial. Promoting wider use of the Union flag could help make Europe more familiar to the public in its everyday life.

What steps does the Commission think could be taken to ensure that the Union flag is used more widely and more prominently?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission (21 November 1996)

The Commission shares the Honourable Member's conviction that more widespread use of the European flag would help to familiarize the public with European dimension in their everyday lives.

When the Community institutions adopted the European emblem in 1986, they introduced measures concerning its use. The use of the Community flag in the Member States is not regulated by Community law.

It should be noted that under Regulation (EEC) No 2082/93 on the Structural Funds, ((OJ L 193, 31.7.1993. )) publicizing Community assistance is compulsory. Commission Decision 94/342/EC of 31 May 1994 concerning information and publicity measures to be carried out by the Member States concerning assistance from the Structural Funds and the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance, ((OJ L 152, 18.6.1994. )) sets out the following practical rules: recipients of Community aid shall acknowledge this aid publicity by using the European emblem on billboards at sites, on publications, advertisements, etc. with an appropriate phrase (e.g. 'This project is part-financed by the European Union'). Similarly in joint ventures the Commission insists that the European emblem is displayed prominently, in association with the logo or emblem of the other participants in the ventures.

Applications from outsiders to use the European emblem for bona fide European projects are given sympathetic consideration. The Commission welcomes the use of the European emblem by third parties. Requests are however carefully considered to prevent misuse.

Information outlets or relays are also encouraged to use the European emblem where possible. In its information and communication activities, the Commission itself always seeks to display prominently the European emblem. The Commission has requested all its services to use the European emblem on their publications, in advertisements, at exhibitions, in promotions and for actions and campaigns.