2024 has been described as the year with more elections. This coincidence of dates and transformative moments in democratic life, and not only, of the entire globe, necessarily draws attention to certain challenges.
In particular, technology represents a means of including more and more people in democratic processes, involving them in public debate and reducing their access to the media. However, on the other hand, the media and digital can also pose potential threats: e.g., media outlets, especially online platforms, can disseminate false or misleading information, leading to public confusion and distrust in democratic institutions; media channels often cater to specific ideological or partisan audiences, creating echo chambers where individuals are exposed only to information that reinforces their existing beliefs. This can exacerbate political polarisation and hinder constructive dialogue. Thus, particularly during election cycles, media can be used to manipulate public opinion through targeted messaging, propaganda, and psychological tactics, influencing voter behaviour and undermining the democratic process.
To tackle these issues, the European Union adopted a series of actions and regulations with the aim of targeting manipulation and threats to freedom of information and freedom of expression. The list includes the Strengthened Code of Practice on Disinformation and the Digital Services Act which was recently enriched by the European Media Freedom Act and the Regulation on the transparency and targeting of political advertising. Even though their entering into force is still a work in progress, it is already possible to draw some conclusions on the content, the necessity of such regulation, its effectiveness, and how it will intersect with the complex and composite regulatory landscape.
To analyse and unpack these challenges, MediaLaws is organising a symposium on “Media, Tech, and the European Media Freedom Act in Shaping Democracy”.
In order to scratch the intersection of media, technology, and democratic processes, particularly within the European Union. Particularly, we are willing to focus in-depth on the challenges posed by media and tech platforms during elections and in sustaining democratic ideals, alongside the implications of the recently approved European Media Freedom Act.
We are seeking thought-provoking and informative blog posts that delve into various aspects of media and tech’s impact on elections and democracy. Whether you are an expert in media law, a journalist covering digital rights, or an activist advocating for electoral transparency, we want to hear from you.
Topics of interest may include, but are not limited to:
1. The Role of Media in European Elections:
Analyse the influence of traditional and social media on electoral outcomes within the European Union, examining issues such as disinformation, media pluralism, and editorial independence.
2. Tech Platforms and Electoral Integrity in the EU:
Explore the responsibilities of tech companies in safeguarding electoral processes across EU member states, including efforts to combat misinformation and uphold transparency in political advertising.
3. The European Media Freedom Act and Democratic Processes:
Assess the impact of the European Media Freedom Act on promoting media freedom, pluralism, and editorial independence within the EU, particularly in the context of elections and democratic governance.
4. Regulatory Challenges and Solutions:
Examine the regulatory frameworks governing media and tech platforms during election cycles in the EU. Evaluate the effectiveness of existing regulations and propose reforms to enhance electoral integrity.
5. Voter Education and Engagement in the EU:
Discuss strategies for enhancing voter literacy and civic engagement in European elections amidst the digital age. Explore innovative approaches to countering online manipulation and fostering informed electoral participation.
6. International Perspectives:
Compare election-related media and tech challenges across different countries and regions within the EU. Highlight lessons learned and best practices for safeguarding democratic processes in a transnational context.
7. Civil Society Responses and Advocacy Efforts:
Amplify the voices of civil society organisations working to promote electoral transparency and accountability within the EU. Showcase grassroots initiatives aimed at countering misinformation and protecting democratic norms.
We welcome diverse viewpoints and interdisciplinary approaches to the topic.
Submission Guidelines:
- Blog posts should be between 1500-1800 words.
- For footnotes and style, please refer to this link.
- Submissions must be original and previously unpublished.
- Send your submissions as a Word document to submission@medialaws.eu by May 22.
Furthermore, following the submission and review process, selected contributors will have the opportunity to participate in a culminating webinar presentation to discuss their insights and engage in dynamic dialogue on these crucial topics.
