Why plain language matters
The European Commission is committed to using plain language, as it builds trust and helps people to
- find information quickly
- get a clear picture of what the EU does, and how EU laws and decisions affect them
- understand their rights and responsibilities
- know what action to take in specific situations
- participate in democracy.
Plain language and editing at the European Commission
In an effort to make the information it provides reader-friendly, accurate and accessible, the Commission encourages authors across all departments to use plain language.
DG Translation's editing team works with authors to
- make sure texts are well structured and easy to understand
- replace jargon or technical terms with everyday words, depending on the audience
- cut unnecessary content and focus on what the reader needs to know.
All EU staff can access clear language training and subscribe to weekly emails with practical writing advice. The Commission’s annual Clear Writing Awards recognise the best examples of clear texts produced by colleagues.
Clear language contacts across the Commission meet regularly to share good practices.
We also work with other EU institutions on plain language, sharing expertise and cooperating on joint projects.
AI-based tools
We have also developed 2 AI-based tools that can make texts clearer. These are open to public administrations, small businesses, academia, non-governmental organisations, Digital Europe Programme projects and candidates for EU posts.
- WebText rewrites web content in plain language, with simple vocabulary and web-friendly formatting – available in English, French and German
- Accessible Text applies easy-to-read guidelines and uses clear, comprehensible language for all audiences – available in English only
