Ten million for EU external communication

(BRUSSELS2) The European Commission (*) has launched two calls for tender intended to improve its communication in the field of external relations. The envelope allocated to this operation - intended to increase the visibility and presence in the media of "Europe in the world" - and consequently of the High Representative, is of the order of 10 million euros maximum on 4 years maximum.

10 million over 4 years

According to the call for tenders (which is now closed - we are examining the offers), two contracts must actually be signed. One relates to the evaluation of communication policies for a maximum amount of 0,5 million euros. The other, larger in volume, relates to media relations and the development of audiovisual materials for a maximum amount of 9,5 million euros, or all the same 2,4 million per year or 200.000 euros per month. A substantial sum, which should finally provide the EEAS with the means of communication corresponding to its vocation.

From media relations to networking and audiovisual production

In this last contract, the operator will thus have the task of "assist in designing and preparing materials for the press", in the coverage of media events, in strategies vis-à-vis the media. He will also have to organize press trips from third countries, to ensure greater visibility for the EU's external action in the particular missions (Somalia, Afghanistan...) allowing "facilitate the understanding of European positions in the country concerned", to organize briefings on particular subjects, in Brussels or in the member countries, intended for the press based in the EU. He will also have the task of designing audiovisual products, of translating certain documents into the "languages spoken mainly outside the EU (Chinese, Arabic, Farsi...)", to network by collecting email addresses from EU visitors or to distribute documents, etc., etc.