The two-year DECIDE project , implemented by the “In the Name of the Family”, NGO from Croatia, has delivered a series of activities aimed at strengthening citizen participation and democratic engagement across the European Union.
Over the course of the project, key activities included three webinars, three in-person workshops, and a final conference held in December 2025 at the European Parliament in Brussels. In addition, a range of trainings and workshops brought together participants from Croatia, Austria, Lithuania, and Slovenia. These activities focused on raising awareness of the importance of citizen participation in EU decision-making and democratic processes, as well as exploring Citizens‘ proposals for EU policy priorities after 2024 EP elections. Particular emphasis was placed on media literacy, including tools and methods, fact-checking practices, critical thinking, and the education of younger generations.
When discussing the future of Europe, participants consistently highlighted the need to safeguard fundamental values such as human dignity, human rights, freedom, and democracy. In addition, many emphasized the importance of strong and healthy family structures as a key foundation for raising future generations capable of sustaining and advancing a free and democratic Europe.
Important role
Security-related challenges were also identified as a major concern. Participants underscored the importance of EU-level policies that promote comprehensive cooperation among Member States, particularly in the areas of migration and border management.
Media literacy emerged as one of the most significant areas of interest among participants, while also revealing notable gaps in knowledge. Particular attention was drawn to the complexity of platform algorithms and content filtering systems, the identification of manipulative techniques, and the growing presence of artificial intelligence-generated content across sectors, including politics and advertising. Participants recognized both the benefits of modern information technologies—such as real-time access to information—and the increased responsibility placed on users to critically assess content, identify misinformation, and develop strong critical thinking skills.
Projects such as DECIDE play an important role in strengthening media literacy among EU citizens and provide valuable guidance to institutions and policymakers on the future development of media literacy education, including its tools and methodologies.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed, however, are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Izvor: frendica.online
Photo: istock by getty images
