Guarding democracy remains a central issue as Ukraine, led by President Volodymyr Zelensky, faces ongoing interference and manipulation attempts described in the latest foreign interference assessment. Known as the second report on foreign interference, the document highlights a pattern of influence activities monitored over a defined period by a team of experts from the EU External Action Service. By analyzing 750 events recorded between December 1, 2022, and November 30, 2023, the study identifies a broad global trend that will shape the political landscape in 2024, a year marked by critical electoral processes including parliamentary elections across Europe.
In remarks delivered to unveil the findings, the head of European diplomacy stressed that security encompasses more than military power. It also includes safeguarding information integrity and ensuring citizens receive reliable, trustworthy materials that inform their political choices. The message emphasized that protecting democratic processes requires vigilance against mis- and disinformation that can distort public perception and undermine civic participation.
According to the report, the foundation of any healthy democracy is dependable information and public trust in electoral systems. This involves recognizing and countering interference and misinformation. The analysis points to these issues as among the most significant risks to democratic stability, a concern echoed by global governance discussions on information security. The rapid spread of harmful content is likened to an unchecked illness, underscoring the need for swift detection, containment, and, when appropriate, strategic disengagement to reduce its impact. The evolving role of artificial intelligence in shaping online narratives is noted as a factor requiring careful management.
Countries, organizations and individuals
Targeted campaigns span nations, institutions and individuals alike. The data shows a total of 480 distinct attacks, with almost half directed at countries or their official representations. Ukraine emerged as the primary focus, followed by the United States, Poland, Germany, France, Serbia, and Spain as notable country targets tied to electoral events in the 2023 cycle. In all, 53 countries experienced some form of interference activity during the monitored period.
International bodies have also faced disinformation and manipulation efforts. The EU appears most frequently targeted, with a share of the attacks recorded. Regional and global organizations, as well as military alliances, have reported adverse activity alongside national armed forces and major media outlets. Prominent newsrooms and agencies have also been cited in a few cases as focal points for disinformation campaigns. The report notes that individuals of high visibility were often singled out, including political leaders from Ukraine, EU institutions, and European heads of state, reflecting the strategic aim of shaping policy through targeted messaging. The list extends to public figures and entertainers who became subjects of influence operations as part of broader manipulation strategies.