Communication is an essential element of democracy, indispensable for fostering public debate. Citizens have a right to know what the European Union is doing, and why. And they have a right to participate in the political process, through effective, two-way communication with the institutions. There are two elements which emerge strongly and repeatedly from our regular Eurobarometer surveys: a call for European leadership and a demand for greater participation. People admit - and regret - how little they know and understand European issues. They ask to be better informed by the media and by their elected politicians. They ask to have a greater say on European issues and they ask for their voice to be heard. This is why communication is so important and this is why we urgently need a citizen-centred Communication Policy that enhances and serves European democracy".