Strategic communication and countering foreign information manipulation and interference

Democracy, the rule of law and respect of fundamental rights are among the founding values of the European Union. These values are common to the Member States, underpinning a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality prevail. 

Citizens can freely express their views and form their own opinions. They can participate in democratic life, choose their political representatives, and have a say in their future, in a public space where different views can be expressed and diversity is accepted

Foreign information manipulation and interference is a serious threat to this. It can undermine democratic institutions and processes by preventing people from making informed decisions or discouraging them from voting. It can polarise society by pitting communities against each other.

New technologies have made it possible for hostile actors to operate and spread disinformation at a scale and with a speed never seen before.

Therefore, tackling foreign information manipulation and interference, and enhancing societal resilience against these threats, are pressing issues for the European Union and its Member States. 
 

^{Source: Standard Eurobarometer 102 - Autumn 2024}

In focus

How is the European Commission responding?

The Commission is strengthening its strategic communication in response to foreign information manipulation and interference targeting EU policies.  

As part of a comprehensive response, it is also important to guarantee media freedom and pluralism and ensure that citizens have access to quality news and information they can trust.

The Commission's response to this challenge is centred around:

• Developing policies to strengthen European democracies, making it more difficult for threat actors to misuse online platforms, and protecting journalists and media pluralism
• Building up situational awareness through monitoring, detection and analysis of open-source information
• Countering foreign information manipulation and interference through awareness-raising projects, advanced technological solutions, and improved coordination
• Enhancing societal resilience through digital and media literacy
• Cooperating with institutions, national authorities, fact-checkers, civil society organisations, media, academia and other organisations