Defending Democracy, Upholding Values

Democracy is under siege as authoritarian forces chip away at fundamental freedoms, judicial independence is eroded, and disinformation is weaponized to sow distrust. Authoritarian leaders are gambling with democratic norms, silencing opposition, and undermining the rule of law. The warning signs are clear—we are facing a relentless assault on democracy, and we must act.

Democracy and the rule of law are the foundation of a free and fair society. Throughout the last mandate, Renew Europe has been at the forefront of defending these core values, ensuring that EU institutions hold governments accountable for democratic backsliding. We have pushed for stronger enforcement of the Rule of Law and fought against the misuse of EU funds by authoritarian-leaning leaders.

Yet, threats to democracy remain pressing. In the United States, Donald Trump has openly questioned continued support for Europe, putting transatlantic security at risk and emboldening authoritarian forces. Meanwhile, in Hungary, Viktor Orbán’s government has taken another step toward suppressing fundamental freedoms by banning Budapest Pride in 2025—an alarming escalation in his assault on civil rights. Across the world, we see democratic norms being eroded, independent media silenced, and disinformation weaponized to undermine trust in institutions.

This is why Renew Europe remains committed to standing against democratic erosion. We will continue to push for stringent rule-of-law conditionality in EU funding, defend the independence of the judiciary, and strengthen protections for journalists and activists. Autocratic leaders cannot be allowed to chip away at democracy while benefiting from EU support.

The fight for democracy is not over. We will not stand by as fundamental freedoms are threatened—we will act, ensuring that Europe remains a stronghold for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.