The threat to democracy looms large as a significant portion of the global population resides in non-free countries, and Big Tech companies increasingly control sectors critical for maintaining the fourth estate. Despite the European Union’s efforts to regulate AI comprehensively through the AI Act, the identification of AI usage in media as a high-risk application remains unclear. It’s imperative to establish clear guidelines governing high-risk AI applications, while also transitioning towards reshaping public spaces according to democratic principles, particularly in the digital realm, to ensure access to reliable information and safeguard individual freedoms.

In response, Europe must not only enforce positive media environments but also prioritize the creation of a European-wide information space that meets democratic standards. This includes active participation from member states and public broadcasters in building a multilingual news and information platform accessible to all Europeans, promoting diverse, trustworthy content.