EU warns disinformation threatens democracy; Ukraine and Balkans face hybrid threats via media manipulation.
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The European Union views disinformation and information attacks as a serious threat to democracy and national security, capable of damaging public trust in institutions, media, and democratic processes, emphasizing the need to counter these threats while respecting freedom of speech. In Lithuania, such attacks are considered a significant national security risk due to geopolitical situations and opposing propaganda, leading to suggestions for administrative or criminal liability for disseminating harmful disinformation. Disinformation is particularly acute during active wars or hybrid attacks; in Ukraine, coordinated campaigns have aimed to undermine its legitimacy and international support since 2014, intensifying after the 2022 invasion by manipulating public opinion both domestically and internationally. Experts state that media plays a crucial role in these information attacks, as it can erode trust in government and military capabilities, making warfare more complex than conventional conflict. Journalists are tasked with carefully vetting sources to combat this, while experts suggest ensuring journalists have access to necessary information for balanced reporting. Lithuania shares similarities with Ukraine’s experience by facing continuous hybrid pressure, notably through efforts to discredit independent media as “propaganda.” Other countries like Moldova, Bulgaria, and Hungary are also vulnerable to disinformation, often spread via social media platforms, with some political parties openly aligning with the Kremlin. A report indicates that in the Balkans, algorithmic manipulation on platforms like TikTok is becoming a new model of political influence.
