Bosnia and Herzegovina: MEPs discussed protecting democracy in Europe

A European Democracy Shield special committee delegation visited Sarajevo to exchange views on the challenges facing democracies and how to strengthen democratic resilience.

During the mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina from 26 to 28 October, the delegation met representatives of the authorities, parliamentary committees and state bodies responsible for democratic integrity, and civil society organisations, media representatives and researchers.

Protecting democracy

The discussions focused on disinformation, economic leverage, cybersecurity and other threats against democracy. The MEPs explored challenges relating to online disinformation, election integrity safeguards, and the role of digital platforms and institutional actors.

The exchanges also addressed judicial independence, legislative reforms to enhance democratic resilience, digital education, media freedom, AI challenges, and how the European Democracy Shield could help prevent and respond to hybrid threats in the framework of the accession process.

Statement

Following the visit, the chair of the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield and head of the delegation, Nathalie Loiseau (Renew, France), said: “Democracies are under attack worldwide, especially in Europe. All Europe’s democracies are being targeted, by foreign and domestic attacks, from state and non-state actors. Sharing experiences, lessons learnt and good practices is essential. We congratulate Bosnia and Herzegovina for the smooth running of the 4 October elections, not least the successful use of new technologies. But we all know that democracy doesn’t begin and end on election day. We are currently building new instruments to provide EU member states with a democracy shield and we are ready to share them with Bosnia and Herzegovina, should the country wish to benefit from our efforts. Participation in the European Centre for Democratic Resilience is one of them. The EU’s digital regulations could also be considered, to address the role of platforms in the public debate. Finally, we are convinced that a vibrant civil society and pluralism in professional journalism are important pillars in the protection of democracy”.