FIGHTING TERRORISM MEANS PROTECTING DEMOCRACY, NOT SACRIFICING IT

Europe’s response to terrorism and violent extremism must combine effective security measures with prevention, democratic resilience and the systematic involvement of civil society, says the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). 

In its opinion on the ProtectEU Agenda for preventing and countering terrorism, drafted by rapporteur Christian Moos, the EESC warns that terrorism, organised crime and hostile foreign interference are increasingly overlapping and calls for a comprehensive response that does not compromise democracy, fundamental rights or the rule of law.  

'Terrorism, sabotage and organised crime increasingly overlap. ProtectEU requires stronger cooperation among authorities, smarter information-sharing and greater prevention, developed together with civil society to strengthen resilience, security and democracy,’ Mr Moos said.  

The Committee argues that strong public institutions, social cohesion, education and active civic participation can help reduce vulnerability to extremist narratives. It therefore wants counter-terrorism policy to pay greater attention to prevention and the root causes of radicalisation, alongside operational security measures.  

The workplace also has an important role to play. The EESC calls for the social partners and organised civil society to be more systematically involved in prevention programmes, early-warning mechanisms and preparedness strategies.  

With almost one third of terrorist suspects in the EU in 2024 aged under 20, the Committee also supports stronger measures to protect minors online, including education, media literacy and safeguards against harmful content.  

The EESC backs stronger protection of public spaces and critical infrastructure, better information-sharing and closer institutional cooperation, but stresses that security measures must remain proportionate and compatible with fundamental rights and open democratic life. (lm)