«Protect what matters – Our Democracy»: The European Commission's new campaign to protect democracy
Democracy is the foundation of the European Union. Protects rights, the freedoms and values that affect it everyday life of all of us. With the new information campaign «Protect what matters – Our Democracy», the European Commission highlights its importance protection of democracy and calls on citizens to actively participate in shaping the future of Europe.
From informing us through the news to participating in the elections, the free expression of our opinions and its freedom scientific research, democracy ensures rights that we often take for granted self-evident, but which were conquered through the efforts of many generations.
Today, democratic authorities face new challenges. For that reason, the European Union is strengthening its actions for the protection of democracy, of fundamental rights and resilience of democratic institutions. Through initiatives such as European Democracy Shield (European Shield for Democracy), works for her protection of free and fair elections, the strengthening of the independent journalism, dealing with foreign interventions and misinformation, as well as the preservation of the rule of law.
Freedom of the press and reliable information
Access to independent and reliable information is a key pillar of any democratic society. The European Union promotes pluralism in the media and protects press freedom, so that citizens can be informed from different sources, evaluate information and form their own opinion.
More information:
https://commission.europa.eu/protect-what-matters-our-democracy/free-media_en
Freedom of expression – Every citizen's voice counts
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right in the European Union. Every citizen has the right to express his opinions, to participate in the public debate and contribute to the decisions that affect his life. Democracy is strengthened when citizens actively participate, they exchange ideas and express themselves freely, without fear of censorship or reprisals.
More information:
https://commission.europa.eu/protect-what-matters-our-democracy/your-voice-matters_en
Scientific and academic freedom
Scientific knowledge and research are driving forces forces of progress. In the European Union, the researchers, the university students and students have the opportunity to conduct research and exchange ideas freely, without undue interference or censorship.
Protecting scientific and academic freedom contributes to innovation, the development of new knowledge and the response to the great challenges of our time.
More information:
https://commission.europa.eu/protect-what-matters-our-democracy/science-stays-free_en
Learn more
The campaign «Protect what matters – Our Democracy» reminds that democracy is not a given. The active participation of citizens, the protection of freedom of the press, the freedom of expression, independent scientific research and respect for democratic institutions are essential conditions for a strong, resilient and democratic Europe.
Visit the official campaign page:
https://commission.europa.eu/protect-what-matters-our-democracy_en
