“Free media is key to holding government accountable and helping citizens make informed decisions”, said Dragomir Stoynev, Chairman of the Committee on European Affairs and Control of the European Funds, during a video conference of the chairpersons of the European Affairs Committees of the parliaments of the Member States with Ms Věra Jourová, Vice-President of the European Commission.

The Parliamentarians' discussion with Ms Jourová focused on the Action Plan for European Democracy. In his speech, Mr. Stoynev welcomed the Action Plan, which engages the EU institutions, national governments and parliaments, which have the main responsibility to ensure the stable functioning of democracy. In addition, he emphasised on the maintenance of democracy, which requires more decisive actions to protect electoral processes and to empower citizens in an open democratic debate.

Regarding the fight against disinformation, the President of the European Affairs and Oversight of the European Funds Committee (EAOEFC) stressed that the EU's work in this area would continue to be strongly based on European values and principles. The plan will also fully guarantee people's right to express opinions and have access to genuine content.

The Action Plan for European Democracy is one of the elements of a wider EU-level endeavour to strengthen democracy, equality and respect for human rights, and the Action Plan will also help Europe address the challenges of the digital era.