Defending Democracy: Countering Information Manipulation in Eastern and Southeastern Europe

Information manipulation has become a core instrument of hybrid warfare, undermining democratic institutions, deepening social and political polarization, and posing a growing security risk across Eastern and Southeast Europe. Targeting both EU member states and countries in the enlargement region, coordinated campaigns by foreign and domestic actors seek to weaken democratic resilience, erode public trust, and undermine support for EU integration and coherent foreign policy.

This panel discussion brings together social media influencers, civil society experts, government representatives and social media platforms to explore how collaboration between influencers, civil society, and EU institutions can strengthen societal resilience, promote transparent communication, and build secure information environments.

The event will take place on February 14, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Mindspace, Viktualienmarkt, 7, Rosental Street, 80331 Munich. Entry is available from 3:45 p.m.