A community closer to its citizens: The European union's use of the internet

The Internet offers government a unique opportunity to provide information about policies and programs directly to its citizens without the filter of traditional media and without the delays associated with conventional publishing methods. It also allows immediate and direct interaction between government officials and electorates. In the wake of the debate over the Treaty on European Union (Maastricht Treaty), European Union (EU) officials concluded there was a need to increase understanding of EU policy objectives. This article explores the context under which information dissemination policies have developed, how those policies are being implemented, and what role the Internet plays in disseminating information and advancing EU policy objectives.