The European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), a network that includes the Catholic University of Portugal and more than 20 European organizations, called for an increase in funding for democracy in the European Union, classifying it as a "strategic investment in stability". The appeal was made in a statement released one day before Ursula von der Leyen delivered the second State of the Union speech of the new mandate.
The network argues that support for democracy risks being one of the victims of the negotiations process for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (2028-2034), being placed second to priorities such as defense, security and migration management. The organization warns that disinformation campaigns, foreign interference in elections, attacks on media and erosion of civic space are not separate issues from the European security agenda, but rather part of its "front line".
According to the EPD, it is democratic institutions that enable societies to resolve conflicts, hold leaders accountable and resist authoritarian capture without resorting to violence. The network's president, Anu Juvonen, questions whether it is possible to strengthen European security while reducing support for democratic institutions, arguing that "supporting democracy is not a luxury, it is a strategic investment in stability, security and human development".
The organization estimates the current global funding deficit in the democracy sector at 60 billion dollars (approximately 51 billion euros). The EPD brings together 21 democracy support organizations with projects in more than 150 countries, in areas such as electoral integrity, civic education, media freedom, citizen participation and democratic governance.
