The Eurosystem is asking Europeans for their opinions on the themes proposed for the next series of euro banknotes. Euro-area citizens can express their views by participating in an online survey from 10 July to 31 August, 2023. The European Central Bank (ECB) and the euro-area national central banks are committed to ensuring that euro banknotes remain an innovative, secure and efficient means of payment. In a world where reproduction technologies are rapidly evolving and counterfeiters have easy access to information and materials, it is necessary to issue new banknotes on a regular basis. In addition to security, the ECB is dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of euro banknotes throughout their lifecycle, while also making them more relatable and inclusive for Europeans of all ages and backgrounds, including vulnerable groups such as those with visual impairments.
Participants will be able to express their opinions on seven themes for future banknotes, selected by taking into account suggestions from a multidisciplinary advisory group consisting of members from all euro-area countries.
Birds: free, resilient, inspiring
Birds know nothing about national borders and therefore symbolize freedom of movement. Their nests remind us of our own desire to build places and societies in which to nurture and protect the future.
They remind us that our continent is an asset that we share with all the forms of life that live there with us.
European culture
Europe's rich cultural heritage and dynamic cultural and creative sectors strengthen the European identity by forging a shared sense of belonging. Culture promotes common values, inclusion and dialogue in Europe and across the globe, bringing people together.
European values mirrored in nature
Europe is where we live, but it is also an idea. The European Union is an organization, but also a set of values. This theme highlights the role of European values (human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights) as the building blocks of Europe and links them to our respect for nature and to preserving the environment.
The future is yours
The ideas and innovations that will shape the future of Europe lie deep within every European citizen. The images created for this theme represent the bearers of the collective imagination through which people will create this shared future. This theme evokes the boundless potential of European people.
Hands: together we build Europe
Hands are familiar to all of us but no two pairs are the same. Hands have built Europe, its physical infrastructure, its artistic heritage and its achievements. Hands build, weave, heal, teach, connect us and guide us. Hands tell stories of work, age and relationships, and of human heritage, history and culture. This theme celebrates the hands that have built Europe and continue to do so every day.
Our Europe, ourselves
We grow up as individuals but also as part of a community, through our relationships with one another. We have our own histories and identities, but we also share a common identity as Europeans. This theme evokes the freedom, values and openness of people in Europe.
Rivers: the waters of life in Europe
Europe's rivers cross borders. They connect us to each other and to nature and they represent the ebb and flow of a dynamic, ever-changing continent. They nurture us and remind us of the deep sources of our common life, and we must take care of them in turn.
The outcome of the surveys will be used by the Governing Council to select the theme for the next generation of banknotes by 2024. There will then be a design competition. European citizens will again have the chance to express their preferences for the winning design options. The ECB is expected to decide on the future graphic design and on when to produce and issue the new banknotes in 2026.
To take part in the survey, click here
For further information, please read the ECB press release
