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Forging the European Democracy Shield: the Key Elements for an Effective Protection of Democracy


On the 6th of December 2024, the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), the Kofi Annan Foundation and International IDEA organised our first policy discussion on the  European Democracy Shield (EDS), hosted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). 

Through the European Democracy Shield, the new European Commission, aims to address threats to democracy such as foreign information manipulation and interference online, by enhancing media literacy, fact-checking, and enforcing the Digital Services Act and the AI Act. The discussion with representatives of the EU institutions and civil society brought diverse and insightful perspectives which will be instrumental in crafting a truly effective shield. 

It emerged from the discussions that the EU should take a holistic approach to the EDS, addressing internal and external threats to EU democracy.  It is equally important to counter foreign information manipulation and interference and also take steps towards civic and institutional resilience. This includes a robust implementation of digital legislation such as the  Digital Services Act or the AI Act, stepping up action and coordination in the field of media literacy, fact-checking and providing support for independent journalism as essential components of the Shield. The initiative should also address attacks on democratic institutions and processes, the rule of law and civil society.

The EDS could also be a tool to protect and promote democracy beyond the EU borders, especially in candidate countries for membership of the European Union. Recent events have shown how malicious actors have tried to undermine democracy, the support of the EU and its founding values in those countries. The EDS could represent an opportunity for the EU to step up its support to defend the political systems of enlargement countries by fighting cyberattacks in election campaigns, combatting disinformation, and strengthening electoral observation.

The European Partnership for Democracy and the democracy support community welcome this very timely initiative of the new European Commission.  Along with other allies, we look forward to helping the Commission develop an effective and impactful European Democracy Shield. 

Some highlights of the event

Photos by Bruno Maes