The European Central Bank (ECB) opened applications for experts to participate in developing a unified set of standards, procedures, and rules for the use of the digital euro (CBDC).
The ECB announced the launch of an initiative to find experts to support the further development of the infrastructure and distribution framework for the digital euro in the eurozone as part of the Rulebook Development Group (RDG), which is responsible for creating standards and regulatory rules for CBDCs in the EU.
Applications from potential candidates will be accepted in two specialized tracks:
- Workstream G5, focused on developing technical requirements for ATMs and payment terminals. Its responsibilities include defining device interaction specifications, supporting various communication technologies, implementing offline functionality for the digital euro, and leveraging existing standards. Candidates are expected to have practical experience with ATM infrastructure and terminal equipment.
- Workstream B1, responsible for establishing testing, certification, and approval frameworks for payment solutions and infrastructure used by payment service providers within the digital euro ecosystem. Candidates should have expertise in payment solutions and payment acceptance devices.
Both tracks will report to the RDG, which includes representatives of consumers, retail, and payment providers, as well as members of the Eurosystem. Applications will be accepted via email until April 10, 2026. Recommendations from current RDG members are encouraged.
The rulebook under development is intended to be flexible and adaptable to future changes. The ECB will make a final decision on issuing the digital euro only after the relevant legislative act is approved.
The RDG was established in 2023 to prepare the legislative and technical framework for the digital euro, which the ECB initially planned to launch as early as 2026. However, in 2025, only framework agreements were signed with companies that will develop the core technical components of the digital euro. In 2026, the selection of participants for a pilot project began, which is expected to launch no earlier than 2027. A final decision on the introduction of a CBDC in the EU is yet to be made.
