Citizens in Europe now have the opportunity to voice their opinions on the designs of the upcoming euro banknotes through an online survey. The European Central Bank (ECB) has made a pre-selection of seven possible topics and released the survey, which is set to run until the end of August. However, due to the overwhelming interest, the survey website is currently experiencing technical difficulties. The ECB has acknowledged the issue and is working to resolve it.
The pre-selected topics for the banknote designs include “European culture,” “European values reflected in nature,” “Rivers: water of life in Europe,” “Hands: together we build Europe,” “You belongs to the future,” “Our Europe, ourselves,” and “Birds: free, resilient, inspiring.” These topics were chosen based on the suggestions of an advisory group consisting of members from various specialist areas and all euro countries. The aim is to avoid motifs that are closely tied to national cultures and to steer clear of gender biases that have been prevalent in depictions of Europe’s past.
The ECB plans to make a final decision on the banknote designs by 2026. To ensure equal representation of opinions from all euro countries, the decision-making process includes not only the online survey but also the results of a representative survey conducted by a polling institute among people in the euro area. Following this, a design competition will be held where people can express their opinions on the pre-selected designs. ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasizes the importance of people in Europe being able to identify with the design of the euro banknotes and actively participate in the decision-making process.
The need for new banknotes arises from the advancements in duplication technologies and the ease with which counterfeiters can obtain information and materials. Apart from enhancing security, the ECB is also committed to reducing the environmental impact throughout the life cycle of the euro banknotes. The goal is to create banknotes that are more appealing and inclusive for all people in Europe, regardless of age or origin, including vulnerable groups such as the visually impaired.
The current euro banknotes were first introduced in 2002 and featured motifs of windows and bridges from different eras. The highest denomination of 500 euros ceased to be issued in April 2019, but remains valid. This measure was taken to prevent criminal activities such as undeclared work, tax evasion, and terrorist financing. In addition to this, the European Commission has developed a framework for the introduction of a digital euro.
In conclusion, the ECB is seeking the input of European citizens to determine the designs for the future euro banknotes. The online survey, along with a representative survey and a design competition, will contribute to the decision-making process. The goal is to create banknotes that reflect European values, are secure against counterfeiting, have a reduced environmental impact, and appeal to all members of society. The final decision on the banknote designs is expected to be made by 2026.
