On research and policy impact.

On paper, the European Democracy Shield ticks almost every box of advice that Kai Unzicker, Charlotte Freihse, Clara Ruthardt, Julia Tegeler, Joachim Rother and I put forward after three years of surveys, international research collaborations, and analytical deep dives on the intersection of disinformation and democracy (available in German). It is rooted in a whole-of society approach. Provides support for fact-checkers and independent journalism. Suggests measures to foster media and digital literacy. And introduces the European Centre for Democratic Resilience — a dedicated institution to bundle expertise and speed up the EU’s response to foreign interference and manipulation. But then…

… there is politics. Reports from Brussels now indicate that oversight and insitutional design were fiercely fought over. In compromising, ECDR’s scale and resources are being watered-down and hence its ability to deliver on its promise is at risk.

It is critical that we don’t relent on countering disinformation. Disinformation does not directly change our behaviour, it has a long-term effect. It erodes trust, normalises radicalisation, and undermines our ability to create a shared reality. Research rarely translates into direct, measureable policy impact. But wouldn’t it be great, if it did?