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Explainers

Our explainers translate complex topics into plain language

Our explainers aim to make complex central banking topics understandable for all audiences. Whether you’ve ever wondered how our monetary policy decisions impact you or what bitcoin is, you can find out in our simple texts, videos and infographics.

Check out all the explainers

Why does the ECB advise on legislation?

Given our role and our high degree of expertise as the central bank for the euro, EU or national legislators must consult us when proposing new laws that might affect our role. Our advice is typically presented in the form of an ECB opinion adopted by the Governing Council.

Explainer

How are Executive Board members chosen?

Candidates for the ECB Executive Board have to be recognised for their experience in monetary or banking matters. Read our new infographic to see how the members of the six-person strong body are selected.

Explainer

We have raised interest rates. What does that mean for you?

We raised our interest rates. Why did we do that? How do interest rate increases affect inflation? And what does our decision mean for you?

Explainer

Why does climate change matter to the ECB?

Climate change brings about two types of risks for our economy: physical and transition risks. Find out how these affect the economy and with that our objective to keep prices stable, the banks we supervise and our own exposure to climate risks.

Explainer

What is the European Central Bank?

Want to know more about what the ECB does and how it relates to you in your daily life? Check out this explainer to find out.

What is the European Central Bank?

The ECB explains

In a hurry? Take a look at our one-minute video explainers. In this video, our colleague Jean-François explains how being accountable to the European Parliament helps us work for and connect with you.

Take a look at our video explainers
WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Find out more about the ECB and its monetary policy

Speak to us: the ECB Youth Dialogue

The decisions we take have an impact on your day-to-day life. That’s why we want to make sure that instead of you just hearing about us and what we do, you also have the chance to talk to us directly. The ECB Youth Dialogue gives you the chance to do exactly that.

More on the ECB Youth Dialogue

Visit us: the ECB Visitor Centre

The ECB Visitor Centre is open for on-site and virtual visits and expert lectures, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the ECB. Take a look at our Visit us page for more information on what we offer and how you can request a visit or lecture.

Visit us

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