Disinformation has been identified as the most urgent global challenge, surpassing even wars and climate catastrophes. The spread of misleading narratives is particularly worrying in regions at the centre of geopolitical tensions. In response to this growing problem, the European Union must invest in high-quality journalism and advanced fact-checking tools. The influence of unreliable media platforms must be limited, says Robert Szustkowski, initiator of the pan-European public campaign against disinformation.
Disinformation – a threat to democratic stability
The impact of disinformation in Europe, including Poland, goes beyond moral and social issues. It poses a direct threat to elections and democratic stability. Given the growing threat of disinformation, the European Union must invest in high-quality journalism and fact-checking tools. The gap that is currently occupied by irresponsible media must be filled, says Szustkowski. Data from the EUvsDisinfo Lab shows that Poland is one of the most targeted countries, especially by Russian propaganda, ahead of the 2025 presidential elections.
Disinformation in the context of political actions
Disinformation is now a powerful political weapon that can influence elections and manipulate public perceptions both locally and globally. European decision-makers must take decisive action to counter online falsehoods with legal, political and social initiatives – while upholding freedom of speech and media independence. Instead of stifling open dialogue, efforts should focus on establishing safeguards against aggressive disinformation and supporting grassroots fact-checking initiatives.
DSA – a weapon in the fight against disinformation?
A key regulatory tool in this fight is the Digital Services Act (DSA), an EU framework designed to monitor and eliminate illegal content while curbing the spread of disinformation online. The DSA gives citizens the ability to request the removal of illegal content through a structured administrative process. In Poland, the government has introduced a “protective umbrella” to protect citizens and institutions from disinformation in the run-up to the election. Platforms such as X, TikTok and Telegram will be closely monitored, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs Krzysztof Gawkowski emphasising the need for increased vigilance.