European Commission launches European Democracy Shield

The European Commission recently presented the European Democracy Shield, alongside the EU Strategy for Civil Society, introducing measures to strengthen democracy, civic engagement, and media freedom across the EU and in candidate countries. Both initiatives were outlined in President von der Leyen’s 2025 State of the Union address.

The Democracy Shield focuses on three pillars: safeguarding the integrity of the information space, strengthening institutions and free elections, and boosting societal resilience. A new European Centre for Democratic Resilience will coordinate expertise and resources, enabling Member States to anticipate, detect, and respond to foreign information manipulation, interference (FIMI), and disinformation. The Centre will also host a Stakeholder Platform for dialogue with civil society, researchers, fact-checkers, and media providers.

Key measures include:

• Strengthening fact-checking networks and developing Digital Media Observatory monitoring capabilities.
• Reinforcing electoral cooperation and issuing guidance on AI in electoral processes.
• Supporting independent media through the Media Resilience Programme and initiatives to protect journalists from threats and SLAPP lawsuits.
• Promoting media and digital literacy, citizenship education, and participatory democracy via a new civic tech hub.

The EU Strategy for Civil Society aims to foster engagement, support and protection of civil society organisations (CSOs), and ensure sustainable funding. Initiatives include the creation of a Civil Society Platform, an online Knowledge Hub on Civic Space, and enhanced funding under the proposed Multiannual Financial Framework, including €9 billion for the AgoraEU programme.

Together, these initiatives aim to safeguard democratic values, strengthen institutions, and empower citizens and civil society in Europe and beyond.