With the European Democracy Shield (EDS), the European Commission has taken a crucial step in addressing the growing threats to democracy posed by foreign information manipulation and interference online. Through strengthened media literacy, fact-checking initiatives, and the enforcement of key regulations such as the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the AI Act, the EDS has the potential to fortify Europe’s democratic resilience amidst rapid technological change.
To support this effort, Nets4Dem has developed a set of targeted recommendations to ensure that the Shield is both effective and impactful.
Our recommendations focus on enhancing transparency, accountability, and civic engagement in the digital sphere. We urge the European Commission to prioritise stronger safeguards against algorithmic manipulation, enforce greater oversight of social media platforms, and expand cross-sector collaboration between policymakers, civil society, and independent researchers. Ensuring that the DSA and AI Act are effectively implemented and enforced will be critical to countering the spread of disinformation and strengthening the public’s trust in digital spaces.
Beyond regulatory measures, a people-centered approach is essential. Nets4Dem calls for robust investment in digital and media literacy programs, empowering citizens to critically assess information online and engage in informed democratic discourse. Support for independent fact-checking organisations is equally vital to counter false narratives and uphold the integrity of public debate.
With democracy under increasing pressure, the European Democracy Shield must be ambitious, proactive, and inclusive. Nets4Dem maintains that by integrating these recommendations, the EDS can move beyond reactive measures and be truly innovative.
Read our full recommendations below.
