The purpose of the event, held for the 12th year in a row, is to better inform Croatian citizens about the possibilities and challenges of future membership in the European Union. This year the emphasis is on informing the public about EU accession negotiations ahead of the referendum on membership.

Jandrokovic said that his ministry would soon launch a strong information campaign through the media to respond to all the questions and prejudices of Croatian citizens about EU membership. Answers to the most frequently asked questions will be published in the form of radio and television commercials, for which the government has earmarked 1.5 million kuna (200,000 euros).

Jandrokovic said that Croatian citizens were mainly interested in issues relating to their living standards, employment and general living conditions in the EU. Another group of important issues includes those relating to the protection of the national identity, tradition and national interests.

Vandoren said that the purpose of Europe Week was to provide objective information about the European Union, about the pros and cons of EU membership.

I personally am convinced that there are more advantages than disadvantages, but it's up to Croatian citizens to decide, Vandoren said, citing EU funds as one of the good reasons for joining the bloc.

He commented on the decline in public support for EU membership after the Hague war crimes tribunal sentenced two Croatian generals to long prison terms, pending appeal.

Sometimes we have the impression that support for the EU is not as high as it should be, but I'm certain that by informing the public we will secure full support, Vandoren said.

The latest poll conducted by Ipsos Plus agency shows that 79 per cent of the electorate would vote in the EU accession referendum and 59 per cent would vote in favour. The survey was carried out before the announcement of the verdicts against generals Ante Gotovina and Mladen Markac.

Europe Week will last until May 10. The main event, the celebration of Europe Day (which is observed on May 9), will take place in Cvjetni Trg square on Saturday May 7 when people will have an opportunity to post their questions about the EU in a specially designed EU Post Box and the EU Delegation will send them the answers by post or email. On the same day, the EU Delegation is also organising an event, called Rhythm of Europe, in Bundek Park, offering a programme of entertainment for children and in the evening a concert for young people.