Deepfakes and the threat to democratic processes: What can Europe do?

Deepfakes and digital disinformation are changing the perception of political content. Manipulated videos and audio can discredit actors, spread false narratives and undermine trust in the media, politics and democratic processes - especially during election campaigns.

Social media plays a key role: it spreads content quickly, but can also limit its impact through technical and regulatory measures. Initiatives such as the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the EU's AI Act are intended to strengthen transparency and responsibility, but their effectiveness remains to be seen.

In addition to regulation, technological solutions, media literacy and the critical handling of information are needed to strengthen democratic resilience.

In interviews, experts discuss risks, responsibility and European countermeasures. The recordings will be available from February 11, 2026 on the YouTube channel EIZ Rostock.