As concerns over election interference intensify across Europe, several EU countries are pushing for stronger protections against foreign influence.
With elections approaching in several member states, calls for action have grown amid warnings about efforts by external powers to manipulate democratic processes.
Twelve European Union countries, including France, Germany, and Romania, have called on the European Commission to take urgent measures to protect elections from foreign interference.
As reported by Digi24, the request was made in a letter signed by EU ministers of European Affairs.
The letter emphasizes the need for the Commission to establish a specialized body to combat foreign manipulation and disinformation during key electoral events.
"Growing threats of foreign interference and disruptive actions in public debates during critical elections pose a direct challenge to our stability and sovereignty," the letter stated.
Recent incidents, the ministers warned, require immediate and coordinated action to safeguard upcoming EU elections.
Russia and China Among Key Concerns
According to EU diplomats, the letter primarily addresses interference from Russia and China, although other cases were also noted.
Germany, which faces early elections on February 23, has set up a task force to counter foreign influence following warnings about Russian espionage and sabotage.
The letter also referenced recent electoral events involving major technology platforms. Last week, Elon Musk, owner of social media platform X, attended a campaign event for Germany's far-right AfD party.
Meanwhile, the Commission has taken action against TikTok, owned by China's ByteDance, over alleged electoral interference during Romania's presidential election last November.
Enhanced Enforcement of the Digital Services Act
The letter urges the Commission to fully leverage its authority under the Digital Services Act (DSA), which requires major platforms like X, Facebook, and TikTok to moderate and remove harmful content, including hate speech, racism, and xenophobia.
Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines of up to 6% of a company’s global annual revenue.
Poland, facing a presidential election in May, has also raised concerns about Russian recruitment efforts aimed at influencing its elections.
The coordinated appeal underscores growing EU determination to strengthen election integrity and counter foreign attempts to undermine democratic processes.
