NEWS

MEPs want to make it easier for citizens to register the ".eu" internet domain and extend it among companies.

The first level domain ".eu", which is the Internet domain name for the European Union and its citizens, had more than 3.8 million registrations in 2017. The European Parliament adopted on January 31 new rules for adapt the eighth most important domain of the internet to the needs of the digital environment, which is constantly changing.

The objective is to soften the current criteria to register the domain and reach the reach of more citizens, organizations and companies. In particular, the rules seek to reach young people, small and medium enterprises, and NGOs. When a domain name is considered defamatory, racist or contrary to public policy or public safety, it will be blocked.

"I believe that the name of the domain can support the digital single market by fostering a European online identity, as well as encouraging online cross-border activities.With this decision, we have reinforced the criteria by which a website can be blocked, making reference to the safeguards of the rule of law, "explained the person responsible for the proposal, the Swedish liberal MEP Fredrick Federley.

Who can apply for the domain?

• The citizens of the EU, regardless of their place of residence;
  nationals of third countries who reside in a Member State or a member country of the European Economic Area (EEA);
• A company established in a Member State or a third country member of the EEA;
• An organization established in a Member State or a third country member of the EEA.

Benefits

For citizens of the Union, the territorial domain ".eu" is a place in cyberspace where their rights as consumers and individuals are governed by European norms and standards.

For companies, a ".eu" website improves their Internet visibility both in the EU single market and globally.