A backlink for a given web resource is a link from any given website (the referrer) to that web resource (the referent). The quantity, quality, and relevance of backlinks for a web page are among the most important factors that search engines evaluate in order to estimate the relevance of a page. The keywords used on the backlink are also taken into account as part of the evaluation process. Receiving meaningful backlinks, also known as perfect links, is therefore vital to ensure the success of a page.
Considering the focus and size of the EU and EC web presences and their interaction with social media and journalists, the following points have been identified to help you form a good back-linking strategy
Note that, with the exception of Linkedin, most social media insert a nofollow on posts' links, thus blocking crawlers from following that link. Nevertheless a good social media campaign will increase the number of visits to a website, and this will have an impact on the relevance that search engines grant to that page.
As fake news increases in size and reach every day, it is important to ensure that backlinks to the European institutions don't suggest that the website linking to an EU or EC website is endorsed by the EU. Similarly, the European institutions should avoid letting their content be loaded to the pages of other websites. This can be done by implementing a correct iframe policy.
If you require further assistance, please contact:
European Commission
DG Communication
Unit B.3
Europa Web Communication
The Europa Web Guide is the official rulebook for the European Commission's web presence, covering editorial, legal, technical, visual and contractual aspects.
All European Commission web sites must observe the rules and guidelines it contains.
Web practitioners are invited to observe its contents and keep abreast of updates.
Read more.