Addressing a Brussels journalists audience on 24 May, Commissioner Wallström underlined the need to 'go local' (to the national member states) to communicate more efficiently with EU citizens. Meetings with national parliaments and national press editors as well as more communication expertise in the commission's external representation offices should pave the way for a more decentralised communication strategy.
Changing the Commission's own internal communication culture, listening better, improving co-operation with the media, more effective forward planning and regular fireside chats with journalists were some of the other elements put forward by the commissioner.
There was little enthusiasm among the journalists when asked by the commissioner if a dedicated TV channel would be a good idea.
Commission sources confirmed that the long-awaited action plan will be adopted before the summer. The White Paper on Communication is likely to be presented after the summer.
