Postcards from the edge
Launched only 48 hours after Russian troops took control of vital installations across the Crimean peninsula in March, the Ukraine Crisis Media Centre (www.uacrisis.org) was set up by a volunteer team of commu
Politics
Language and politics
Communication is the currency of politics.
Talking politics
The multiple nominations for Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln biopic at this year’s Oscars is a reminder of just how important – and popular – a role strong narratives play in the history of American politics.
"Europe is a brand"
Last year you were awarded the French Legion of Honour – congratulations!
"I was really surprised about the suspicion which surrounds decision-making in the EU"
Since becoming EU commissioner for Administrative Affairs, Audit and Anti-Fraud in 2004, you have become well-known for working towards a more transparent EU. Where does this strong personal interest derive from?
"Journalists want their demands to be fulfilled and they are less interested in what we want to convey as a message."
With 27 member states, the EU also consists more or less of 27 different cultures of communication. Nevertheless, with Javier Solana, there is a High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy.
James Appathurai
"There is a lot to be done to enhance the visibility of our institution"
From coal researcher to director of information: your career has certainly been a varied one.
"Being a spokesperson for a cause you believe in is hugely satisfying"
Interview by David Phillips