European Democracy Shield

European Democracy Shield, this was European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s strong announcement on 10 September 2025, during the traditional State of the Union address in Strasbourg.  In a speech with martial overtones, the President reminded us that external threats go beyond the military or energy sphere. Our democracy is also under attack. It needs a shield.

And yet, the proposed European budget for the period beyond 2028 does not advance the cause of strengthening democracy. Although the new AGORA programme is a welcome addition, aimed at safeguarding the independence and diversity of the media, including regional and local outlets, and even though respect for the rule of law remains one of the conditions for access to European funds, it seems that the Commission’s approach reduces democracy to two pillars: justice and the media.

Meanwhile, European citizens see democracy embodied first and foremost by their mayors, in whom they continue to place far greater trust than in national politicians or European institutions. A living democracy is one that strengthens debate, that fosters decision-making on scientific grounds, free from manipulation. One that combats hatred and addresses needs, one that guarantees fairness. Its roots must lie at the local level.

A democratic shield cannot be effective without municipalities. They are essential, the very foundation of European democracy. If the President of the European Commission has announced investment in social fairness by proposing a new agenda for cities, this agenda must put local democracy as the top priority!

The future “European Centre for Democratic Resilience” must provide resources to safeguard local democracy; the annual Rule of Law Report must include a chapter on local democracy. European rules and the future budget must support municipalities and give them the means to meet their obligations! At the very least, this must be included in the future agenda for cities. And as for our proposals for the future European budget, we also have recommendations that are essential for a grounded, living democracy!