**Public Invited to Vote on Future Euro Banknotes**
The European Central Bank (ECB) has announced a significant step in the evolution of euro banknotes, unveiling ten shortlisted design proposals for the next series. This initiative is accompanied by a public survey that invites citizens across Europe to provide their feedback on the proposed designs, which are rooted in two central themes: European culture and the motifs of rivers and birds.
Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, emphasized the importance of euro banknotes as more than just a medium of exchange. “They are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe,” she stated, highlighting that the new designs aim to blend beauty with meaning, reinforcing a shared European identity.
The design proposals emerged from a competitive process that attracted over 1,200 applications from graphic designers throughout the European Union. From this pool, 25 designers were invited to develop proposals based on the two thematic concepts. An independent jury, consisting of 21 experts from various fields such as graphic design, communication, neuroscience, and history—each nominated by a euro area central bank—narrowed down the submissions to the ten shortlisted designs.
The ECB has launched an online public survey that will remain open until September 21, 2026. This survey allows citizens to express their opinions on the proposed designs. In addition to the public survey, an independent research company will conduct a parallel survey among a representative sample of euro area citizens to gather a broader perspective.
The ECB has underscored the importance of public feedback in shaping the future of euro banknotes, stating that it is a crucial part of the Eurosystem’s inclusive approach. The findings from both surveys will be compiled into a report that will be published once the final design concept is selected.
The Governing Council of the ECB is expected to make a decision on the final design by the end of 2026, taking into account the jury's conclusions, technical assessments, and the results from the public surveys. Following the selection, the chosen design will undergo further development and testing before production begins. The new banknotes are anticipated to enter circulation in the years following their design approval, while existing euro banknotes will continue to circulate alongside the new series, retaining their value.
This redesign marks the first complete overhaul of euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002. Piero Cipollone, a member of the ECB Executive Board, noted that the redesign is part of a long-term effort to ensure that cash remains a secure and efficient means of payment. He stated, “Preserving citizens’ access to public money and their freedom to choose how to pay” is a priority for the ECB.
The upcoming series of euro banknotes will incorporate enhanced security features aimed at improving authentication and accessibility, particularly for visually impaired users. Additionally, the ECB plans to address environmental concerns by enhancing the durability of banknotes and adopting more sustainable materials and production methods.
As the public engages with the design proposals through the survey, the ECB aims to create a new series of banknotes that not only reflects the cultural richness of Europe but also embraces modern advancements in security and sustainability. The initiative represents a collaborative effort to ensure that the future of euro banknotes resonates with the values and identities of European citizens.