Vegans writing on euro banknotes: legal, but counterproductive?

Vegans writing on banknotes: propaganda or vandalism? The legal and economic dilemma

Did you know that a banknote marked with a vegan message is still valid? Legally, yes, but in everyday commerce it's another story. The recent campaign by activists leaving notes on 20 and 50 euro banknotes has peine the debate about the limits of activism and the deterioration of cash.

The legality of writing on banknotes
Under European Central Bank rules, a banknote with a note on it is not automatically considered counterfeit as long as it retains its authenticity and integrity. However, shops and banks may refuse it if they consider it damaged. National central banks exchange damaged banknotes under certain conditions, but they can deny reimbursement if the damage is deliberate. In practice, a small inscription does not invalidate the note, but it does make it harder to spend.

Reactions and possible economic effects
The debate around this practice has been intense. Some see it as a clumsy form of propaganda that socialises the cost of withdrawing or replacing damaged banknotes. Others consider it a legitimate, if ineffective, act of protest. Counter-messages have also been proposed, such as writing tax or political protests. There are recurring antiestéticars that it could turn into a trend with unintended consequences, from advertising to hate speech.

A trend with unforeseen consequences?
The risk is not only economic. The initiative could escalate into a flood of messages on cash, from political propaganda to insults. As has been pointed out, if the practice spreads, it could trigger a war of inscriptions that makes cash, already in decline, even harder to use. Meanwhile, the banknotes keep circulating. Even the ones shouting "go vegan" from a corner.