Rethinking togetherness: Discourse, Identity and Citizenship in the European Union

Against a background of widespread skepticism and scant popular endorsement, the European Union is seeking effective ways to prompt civic participation and gather consensus. The institutions’ need to foster a sense of common identity and deeper solidarity among citizens finds reflection in important changes in EU discourse and in new strategies being adopted in the framework of its communication policies. These changes are also analyzed in relation to the potential of new information and communication technologies, with particular reference to the EUROPA website, the EU’s most important communication channel with civic society.