Moldova, integral part of European Democracy Shield: EU launches measures to protect democracies

Moldova will be included in the European Democracy Shield, announced today by the European Commission. This is a set of concrete measures for empowering, protecting and promoting strong and resilient democracies throughout the European Union. At the same time, the EU Strategy for Civil Society was launched, aiming for stronger involvement and protection of civil society organizations. ‘’This is the power of Europe and we must enhance our collective capacity to protect it at any time,’’ said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Through the European Democracy Shield, the European Commission will boost efforts to combat efforts of manipulation of information and foreign interference. EU representations and delegations abroad will be strengthened and partnerships will be mobilized to respond to external actions of manipulation of information and disinformation.

‘’Democracy is the foundation of our freedom, prosperity, and security. The European Democracy Shield will strengthen the essential elements that allow citizens to live every day according to our common democratic values – freedom of expression, independent media, resilient institutions and a vibrant civil society. This is the power of Europe and we must enhance our collective capacity to protect it at any time,’’ said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Moldova will be an integral part of this European Democracy Shield, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said in Chisinau on November 11.

‘’I am pleased that a part of this strategy regarding the democratic shield will be dedicated to Moldova. You will have a special place as a good example, as best practice regarding how we can ensure a resilient democracy. This means that all of us can learn from you,’’ said Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement, during her visit to Chisinau.

‘’Liberal democracy is under attack. We see campaigns – including from Russia – specifically meant to polarize our citizens, undermine trust in our institutions and pollute politics in our countries. The new European Democracy Shield is part of Europe's response to protect the elements of our democracies: free media, fact-based debates and fair elections. If we want democracy to prevail, we must defend it better,’’ said High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.

The European Democracy Shield and the EU Strategy for Civil Society establish measures to protect the key pillars of democratic systems: free people, free and fair elections, independent media, a dynamic civil society and strong democratic institutions.

‘’European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Mihaela McGrath highlighted, in the context of the European Democracy Shield, the recent elections in Moldova as a strong reminder of the need for vigilance, preparation and coordinated action in protecting democratic processes,’’ said Daniela Morari, head of the Moldova Delegation to the EU.

A key element will be the new European Center for Democratic Resilience, which will bring together the expertise of the EU and member states to anticipate, detect, and respond to threats to democracy. The center will include a platform for dialogue with civil society organizations, academia, fact-checkers and media providers.

‘’A confident, open and resilient democracy is the best response for those trying to divide or weaken us,’’ stated Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy of the European Commission.

‘’Europe is stronger than ever in defending its democratic foundations and values. Citizens represent the heart of our democracies. Our proposals are about more than just defense – they are about empowerment. We want every citizen, every association, every voice to know that Europe stands with them,’’ added Henna Virkkunen.

The EU Strategy for Civil Society aims to strengthen collaboration with civil society organizations through support and protection for their work at the EU and national levels.