Brussels (dpa) – Through closer cooperation between EU institutions and member states via a new center, the EU Commission aims to combat election manipulation and disinformation. The “European Center for Democratic Resilience” is a key point of a new package of measures from the Commission to strengthen democratic institutions, free elections, independent media, and civil society engagement in the EU.
According to the EU Commissioner for Democracy, Michael McGrath, the center will focus on prevention, detection, analysis, and response to threats such as information manipulation from abroad. Information, expertise, and capacities will be consolidated there.
However, the participation of member states is voluntary, according to the Commission. It is overall a strategic, non-legislative approach, McGrath said. Further details, such as where the center will be located, have not yet been disclosed. EU lawmakers from the Green and Liberal factions criticized that the initiative is not sufficient.
Disinformation campaigns threaten democracy
The EU has been facing disinformation campaigns for years, especially from Russia. Malicious foreign interference in elections is also being recorded. The Commission aims to address this with the “Democracy Shield” initiative.
In this context, Brussels also plans to develop a crisis protocol under the Digital Services Act. Such a protocol can outline response measures to large-scale disinformation campaigns on online platforms. Additionally, new guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in elections are planned.
To support independent and local media, a new media resilience program with financial support will be established. Furthermore, the Commission intends to create a voluntary network of influencers to raise awareness of relevant EU regulations such as the rules on political advertising and to highlight their responsibility when participating in political campaigns. The various initiatives are to be gradually implemented by 2027. (November 12)
