On March 25-26, 2025, the “Democracy Matters – Facts Matter” conference brought together fact-checkers, journalists, academics, and policymakers at the European Parliament in Brussels. Co-organised by the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), the European Parliament, and European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO), the event featured discussions on fact-checking’s role in safeguarding democracy.
At a time of rising disinformation and fact-checking under attack, the conference provided a platform for expert dialogue on information integrity, legislation, and the future of European democracy. The event featured a keynote conversation with European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, and panels with MEPs, fact-checkers and academics.
A crucial time for democratic resilience
In her opening remarks, EFCSN Chair, Clara Jiménez Cruz said, “We meet at a crucial time – a time when the role of fact-checkers has never been more vital, and yet, perhaps, never more challenging. […] This is a challenge not just for us gathered here today – but for European societies as a whole. Because the work you do is not optional. It is a cornerstone of democratic resilience.”
She also highlighted the importance of placing fact-checkers in the wider context of their role as journalists, “Fact-checking is often described as a branch of investigative journalism. And that it certainly is. But it is also so much more than that. Fact-checkers have become the frontline defenders against disinformation campaigns.”
EFCSN Chair Clara Jiménez Cruz’s opening remarks. © European Union 2025 – Source : EP
In a video address, President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, said, “If facts lose their meaning, then democracy loses its foundation. That’s where you — fact checkers — come in. By separating fact from fiction, by exposing lies and calling out manipulation, you are standing up for democracy itself.”
Conversation with Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy
In her address to fact-checkers, Virkkunen highlighted: “Your work is vital for defending our democracy in the European Union and I count on your continued support in the future. I want to thank you for your efforts to create a more safe, trustworthy online environment for everybody.”
“Fact-checking is not censorship,” she also stated. “The people have a right to information and that’s why the fact-checkers are playing an important role here.”
Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, speaking with EFCSN Chair, Clara Jiménez Cruz.
Panels and Discussions
On Why Fact-Checking Matters, MEP Nathalie Loiseau, Chair of the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield, said, “Fact-checking is something that we all need. We are facing thousands of pieces of information and it is very difficult to make a difference between quality information and disinformation… fact-checkers play an important role.” In this lively discussion, panelists stressed the importance of integrating fact-checking into digital platforms and the shortcomings of Community Notes. “We know that we have a network that works well and is working to prevent disinformation,” stressed MEP Pina Picierno, EP Vice-President and First Vice-Chair of EP Bureau Working Group on Communication.
MEP Nathalie Loiseau, Chair of the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield (left), and MEP Pina Picierno, EP Vice-President and First Vice-Chair of EP Bureau Working Group on Communication (right). © European Union 2025 – Source : EP
MEP Christel Schaldemose, EP Vice-President and Chair of the Working Group on Digital Services Act Implementation, spoke on the Digital Services Act (DSA), “To say that the DSA is against freedom of speech is simply rubbish. On the contrary, we have never had so many people online and the DSA is not narrowing that.”
MEP Sabine Verheyen, EP First Vice-President and Chair of the Working Group on Media Freedom Act Implementation, also noted the importance of fact-checking, “Across Europe and beyond, disinformation is being weaponised to distort reality and erode public trust in media. Your work as fact-checkers and journalists is at the heart of the fight against these threats.”
Other panels and discussions dove into developing technology in fact-checking and how fact-checkers collaborate in their work against disinformation.
Takeaways
The “Democracy Matters – Facts Matter” conference provided an important opportunity for dialogue between fact-checkers and EU policymakers, highlighting fact-checkers’ essential role in combating disinformation. The commitment expressed by representatives is heartening and the EFCSN hopes for continued collaboration and support for the community which is essential for protecting democracy.
