What if resisting disinformation started with strengthening the very foundations of information integrity—together?
Developed amid rising geopolitical tensions, rapid technological change and increasing pressure on democratic institutions, this Council of Europe policy document sets out a framework for resisting disinformation and strengthening information integrity. It approaches disinformation as part of a wider ecosystem of harmful information practices, including propaganda and foreign interference.
Structured around ten “building blocks”, the document centres on the development of a comprehensive national strategy, supported by key policy pillars such as research and monitoring, media literacy, quality journalism, electoral integrity and accountability within the digital ecosystem. Grounded in freedom of expression, international co-operation, multistakeholder engagement and long-term trust-building, it emphasises that all counter-disinformation measures must comply with the European Convention on Human Rights, particularly Article 10, and prioritise preventive resilience-building responses.
INTRODUCTION BUILDING BLOCKS AT A GLANCE GOAL
Building block 1 – Elaborate a structured national strategy
PILLARS
Building block 2 – Enhance disinformation research and monitoring
Building block 3 – Strengthen media and information literacy and empower users
Building block 4 – Support quality journalism and foster media resilience
Building block 5 – Safeguard the integrity of elections
Building block 6 – Promote competition and accountability in the digital ecosystem
FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES
Building block 7 – Uphold freedom of expression
Building block 8 – Facilitate international and cross border co-operation
Building block 9 – Foster multi-stakeholder synergies
Building block 10 – Foster long-term trust in institutions and the media
GLOSSARY
