Open topic on reinvigorating and shielding European democracy

investigación innovación I+D+i desarrollo tecnológico europeo. HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: EU institutions and national decision-makers, civil society organisations and other societal actors and citizens at large are better equipped, with new data, knowledge and methods, to confront threats and challenges of democracies as well as to enhance their inclusiveness and participatory elan. Strengthened citizens’ long-lasting engagement in the democratic life, including but going beyond electoral processes, and increased trust in democratic institutions. Scope: The Political Guidelines for 2024-2029 of the European Commission [1] announced a new European Democracy Shield, and the communication [2] was adopted in November 2025. Building on the European Democracy Action Plan [3] and the Defence of Democracy Package [4] , this initiative aims to safeguard, strengthen and promote democracy in the EU and to reinforce public trust. The Democracy Shield will aim to reinforce citizens’ participation and engagement in the democratic life, promote free and fair elections and support free and independent media. It will also address the increasing threats to democratic systems, institutions and process