La comunicación aplicada en ámbitos institucionales europeos

Abstract

The overall methodological design of this thesis is descriptive, with the aim of reflecting the current state of communication and information in the European Union. Historical and Formal Legal methods are followed. One of the aims of this study is to try to determine the importance of transparency as a core element in all appropriate information and communication policy. This thesis rests on the hypothesis that without transparency in information, good relations between an organization and i ts stakeholders are not possible. The thesis is divided into three sections. It begins, within a theoretical/conceptual framework, by focusing on communication management in organisations, with special emphasis on supranational organisations such a s the EU. The second part centres on a study of the structure and organisation of European Union institutional communication. From a historical perspective, it studies the origins of EU information and communication policy from its beginnings, the n looks at developments up to the present day and the good use that the EU makes of new information and communication technologies, especially Internet. This part of the thesis shows how the EU may be an interesting option for the specialisation of p rofessionals in the field of communication. Finally, in the face of constant criticism, normally from the public and the media, about the lack of transparency and the democratic deficit in the EU, the thesis proposes a study of the right of access to information established by the EU authorities. The thesis presents this right as an instrument for communication and for transparency of information, providing journalists with a new tool which enables them to carry out their daily task of present ing interesting news about the EU to the public.