The Europe Direct initiative was launched in Ireland in 2005. It is a network of accessible, local information centres that distribute information and advice about the European Union’s policies, actively promote local and regional debate about the European Union, allow the European institutions to disseminate local and regional information and give the public the opportunity to send feedback to the European Union institutions.

The Europe Direct Contact Centre (EDCC) offers an EU-wide phone and mail information service on all EU matters.

Europe Direct Information Centres (EDICs) are local contact points. They provide information and answer questions on all kind of European matters, they answer in person, taking account of the local context. Staff engage with people by organising events in schools, debates with local and regional politicians and present Europe at fairs. With over a million enquires every year, European decision-makers also have a chance to learn directly about peoples’ needs and concerns.

European Documentation Centres promote education and research on EU integration. They offer a wide range of documents on European affairs and encourage the academic community to engage in the debate on Europe.