Analysis of disinformation campaigns across Europe, highlighting vulnerabilities and key narratives like anti-EU sentiment and war rhetoric.
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Analysis from HotNews.ro, in collaboration with international partners under the European PULSE project, identifies several disinformation campaigns circulating across Europe. Key narratives include claims that the EU is forcing LGBT acceptance and banning religion, arguments against participating in elections (“Why bother, the right people will win”), and skepticism regarding military aid to Ukraine. Vulnerability to disinformation varies across member states; Romania and Bulgaria are noted as highly susceptible due to lower media literacy compared to countries like Finland or Estonia. Experts state that all populations are vulnerable, as propaganda targets specific insecurities—economic, physical, or political. Major themes eroding trust involve portraying the EU as an elite tool imposing dictatorial will, calls for regaining sovereignty, and narratives surrounding LGBT rights. The war in Ukraine is a major catalyst for disinformation, with Russian efforts aiming to weaken support for aid and remove sanctions, while radical populists aim to consolidate their voter base. Toxic pacifism narratives suggest that since Russia cannot be defeated, investment in Ukraine is futile, a sentiment sometimes promoted by politicians. Disinformation is spread by state-backed actors, casual users seeking electoral advantage, and new figures from radical populism. In Spain, disinformation campaigns have shifted from anti-vaccine theories to denying aid for Ukraine, fueled by public fatigue regarding the conflict. Furthermore, Ukrainian refugees are being framed as a threat in disinformation efforts across Europe.
