Events such as conferences, debates, seminars, summer schools, etc. may receive Parliament’s patronage, provided that they have a clear European dimension, in particular by highlighting the European Parliament’s or the Union’s role and contribution to in the field concerned, and they have a high quality and a significant outreach. Furthermore the date(s) and place must be confirmed, and the duration is limited. The events must be non-profit.
Particular attention is paid to the extent to which the event raises awareness of European parliamentary democracy and fosters active European citizenship, promotes fundamental rights, gender equality, non-discrimination and social inclusion. Special attention is also paid to events organised by, or aimed at, the youth community.
Patronage cannot be granted to events with commercial nature or purpose that aim at advertising or promoting, directly or indirectly, brands or any kind of commercial activity, neither to events with party-political nature, including fundraising for political purposes and routine or internal activities of trade unions or political parties. Events and/or organisers undermining the basic democratic values and principles of the European Union are also excluded.
If the conditions of eligibility are no longer met by an event for which patronage has been granted by Parliament under the rules, the President may withdraw, at any moment, the decision to grant patronage.
Patronage does not place Parliament under any financial obligation, nor does it confer a right to use Parliament’s facilities. For further information on the conditions for patronage, please refer to the rules below.