On November 18, 2025, the Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE) of France organized the Sixth edition of the Erasmus Project for organized civil societies at its headquarters in Paris. 
The event was attended by presidents and members of National Economic and Social Councils from across the EU, as well as representatives of French and European institutions. The Romanian ESC was represented by President Sterică Fudulea and Secretary-General Lorena Stoian.

The theme of the meeting was the European Democracy Shield, a European Commission initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of European societies to combat disinformation and manipulation of information by proposing measures to protect free and fair elections, media independence, and strong democratic institutions. Discussions focused on three topics: the fight against disinformation and the protection of the media, the importance of social dialogue in the democratic process, and the strengthening of the democratic framework.  

President Fudulea spoke during the second session about combating disinformation and protecting the media. Mr. Fudulea emphasized that the fight against disinformation must be based on rigorous arguments. When violations of democratic values and what appear to be coordinated disinformation campaigns are identified, the allegations must be supported by clear evidence that leaves no room for alternative interpretations, because any weakness in the architecture of the argument is immediately exploited by malicious actors on social media platforms. This need for rigor is directly linked to the need for voter education programs, so that voters acquire the critical thinking skills necessary to independently evaluate sources of information. Education is therefore part of a country`s defense strategy. At the same time, the fight against disinformation must never violate the fundamental right to freedom of expression. Authoritarian responses to disinformation often prove more dangerous than disinformation itself, setting a precedent for future administrations to exercise abusive control over information. It is the responsibility of organised European civil societies to encourage a democratic centrist position and inclusive social and civic dialogue. 

The ESC President also pointed out that defending European democracy must include defending the EU`s eastern borders by supporting these regions in terms of military security, economic development, investment in infrastructure, and strengthening democratic institutions. The European Democracy Shield symbolises a shared commitment to European democracy, protecting not only institutions but also citizens, civic space and even the principles that hold Europe together. That is why we cannot talk about a European Democracy Shield without recognizing that the nations on the EU`s eastern borders are a shield: they are the first line of defense for territorial integrity, economic stability, and European democratic values against external threats. 

On November 18, the President and Secretary-General visited the Romanian Embassy in France, where they were welcomed by Consul General Ecaterina Constantinescu, Minister Plenipotentiary Vlad Angelescu, and Gabriela Goran, representative of the Trade and Economic Promotion Office. The Romanian delegation presented to the Consul General the position taken at the meeting organized by CESE France on the European DemocracyShield, and also presented the Opinion adopted by the Romanian ESC on "Public policies for the socio-economic strengthening of the Black Sea area and the border regions of the European Union."

Foto credit: Damien Carles /SIPA/CESE