Are Civil Society Organisations the Canary in the Digital Coal Mine?

Targeted by smear tactics and intimidation, Civil Society Organisations are critical in countering false narratives and maintaining societal resilience. These organisations must be provided with context-aware support as they battle disinformation and protect democratic values across the region.

The rise of disinformation has become one of the most pressing challenges facing democratic societies across the globe. From increasing vaccine hesitancy and eroding trust in democratic processes to violent riots incited by angry mobs, all of these phenomena have been influenced or directly triggered by disinformation campaigns.

Central and Eastern Europe offers a stark example of the corrosive effects disinformation can have on the fabric of democracy. Despite growing recognition of the issue, one crucial element is often overlooked: the chilling effect disinformation has on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and their essential work.

CSOs are pivotal in upholding democratic values, particularly in the face of mounting internal and external pressures. However, they are increasingly becoming targets of smear campaigns, intimidation and online threats – often instigated by disinformation efforts from both domestic and foreign actors.