PROTOCOL AND INSTITUTIONAL SYMBOLISM: THE EUROPEAN UNIONS' PUBLIC DIPLOMACY AS A TOOL OF EXTERNAL LEGITIMIZATION

Abstract

This final degree project explores how the European union uses protocol and institutional symbolism as instruments of public diplomacy to strengthen its external legitimacy. It examines the EU¿s global image, the so-called "Europe Brand", and how with the use of ceremonies, flags, and official events communicate its power and values. Drawing on soft power, political communication, and legitimacy theories, the study compares how different diplomatic acts help project a unified and credible European identity on the international stage.