Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
Europeans were invited to provide their feedback on the new euro banknotes, which are expected to enter circulation by 2029.
The first euro banknotes were introduced in early 2002. They have since been refurbished to make them more sanitary and resistant to wear and tear, but the design depicting non-existent architectural structures remains unchanged. And the European Central Bank (ECB) announced on Monday that it is now working on an entirely new design.The Belgian news agency reported in Brussels.
“After 20 years, it is time to adapt the appearance of our banknotes to ensure that Europeans of all ages and backgrounds get to know them better,” said Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank.
“There is a strong connection between our single currency and our common European identity, and our new series of banknotes should underscore this.”
Seven subjects
Lagarde explained that the ECB wants European citizens to engage with the design of euro banknotes, which is why it invites EU residents from all member states to participate.
An advisory group made a list of seven possible themes: Birds, which symbolize freedom of movement. Europe's cultural heritage; Europe's values (human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law and human rights) are reflected in nature; the ideas and innovations that define the future of Europe; hands that bind people; and rivers of Europe.
Residents can fill out a questionnaire on the topics from 10 July to 31 August 2023. An independent research firm will ask the same questions to a representative sample of people in the eurozone to “ensure views from across the eurozone are equally represented”.
High tech notes
Based on the results of the surveys, the ECB will choose the theme for the next generation of banknotes by 2024. This will be followed by a design competition in which EU citizens will once again be asked to give their opinions on the designs submitted. A final design decision is expected in 2026.
This new series of "high-tech banknotes" will be harder to counterfeit and will have a lower impact on the environment, while ensuring that cash payments remain possible.,