Campo de Gibraltar 'positive image' campaign under way

(Agencies) Diputación de Cádiz announced on Wednesday that it is launching a campaign to improve the image of the CdeG, which has for a long time "suffered under a 'black legend' stereotype." To start with the authorities have commissioned a documentary to point out the positive aspects and values of the area, in order to counterbalance media coverage on such negative things as illegal immigration, environmental pollution and drug trafficking. An organization grouping Campo business, industries, trade unions and local media and calling itself ‘Initiative for a Positive Image of the Campo’, met recently with the President of Diputación, Francisco González Cabañas, to discuss ideas for further action.>
A spokesperson for the organization said, “There is an abundance of bad news related to the Campo which resonate widely in the Spanish national media while positive aspects which can balance this out, hardly obtain any coverage at all."

For its part, Diputación is of the opinion that Campo-based multinational businesses and law enforcement agencies could do more to improve the image of the area, particularly regarding protection from environmental pollution and electronic vessel surveillance technology, "which should not be seen as an instrument of repression but as one that is there to save lives."

Cabañas pointed out that the Campo offers attractive business locations and extensive leisure facilities, as well as excellent weather throughout most of the year. He also mentioned the strategic value of the Campo for import-export business as well as its nearness to tourism resources such as Los Alcornocales and Estrecho Nature Parks. "It is time to create a good trademark, of quality and positivity, for the Campo de Gibraltar," he stated.

The initiative is supported by other organizations such as Fundación Dos Orillas and various tourism organizations. Also, the matter has the support of all political groupings at Diputación, where it will be debated shortly.