BRUSSELS

The European Commission on Wednesday unveiled the European Democracy Shield, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening EU democracies and countering hybrid online disinformation campaigns from foreign actors.

The package of measures focuses on safeguarding key pillars of democracy, including free and fair elections, independent media, and a vibrant civil society, while promoting citizen engagement and societal resilience, according to a statement.

"Democracy is the foundation of our freedom, prosperity, and security. The European Democracy Shield will reinforce the core elements that allow citizens to live our shared democratic values every day," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

A central feature of the initiative is the creation of a European Centre for Democratic Resilience, which will coordinate expertise and resources from EU institutions and member states to detect and respond to threats such as foreign information manipulation and interference.

The center will also establish a Stakeholder Platform to engage civil society, media, researchers, and fact-checkers in combating disinformation.

Under the shield, the commission plans to enhance digital literacy, develop an EU citizenship competence framework, and improve situational awareness of online information during elections and crises.

It will also introduce guidelines on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in electoral processes and support independent media through a new Media Resilience Program.

"Liberal democracy is under attack. We see campaigns - including by Russia - specifically designed to polarize our citizens, undermine trust in our institutions and pollute politics in our countries," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said, adding that the new initiative "is part of Europe's response to protect the ingredients of our democracies."