Brandstätter coordinates defense against disinformation

The European Parliament sets a clear sign against targeted influence and externally controlled manipulation. With the establishment of the new special committee “European protective shield for democracy”, it is examined how disinformation is infiltrated by European democracies and which measures are necessary. Helmut Brandstätter, Neos delegation manager in the European Parliament, becomes coordinator of the new committee for Renew Europe.

Brandstätter warns urgently: “Our democracies are under constant fire – of hybrid attacks and disinformation campaigns from Russia, and the interference of Elon Musk in German elections and manipulation of public opinion at the EU referendum in Moldova. While self -proclaimed patriots open the door for disinformation and manipulation, we have to keep against it as a strong protective shield. ”

“We will build a strong line of defense against disinformation,” continued Brandstätter. “The committee will devote itself to three central tasks: First, the Digital Services Act (DSA) must be used consistently on digital platforms to contain fake news and targeted manipulation. Second, we will disclose networks and financial flows through which foreign regimes spread their propaganda in Europe. Third, we have to strengthen citizens against targeted manipulation – through better media literacy and clear counter -strategies against fake news. Others want to deliver the fake news to us because they want to benefit from it – we work to protect our democracy. ”