On Thursday 20 October, within the framework of the European Council meeting held in Brussels, Latvia joined the appeal to ensure permanent funding for the organization “EU Strategic Communication Task Force” (EU StratCom) operating under the aegis of the European Commission.
Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis pointed out that the Russian disinformation policy has been trying to manipulate public opinion in the EU for years and is doing it increasingly actively.
The issue on the need for permanent funding was raised by Estonia, but it was supported by Latvia, Denmark and Finland.
Currently, the work of the EU StratCom depends on the experts sent by the EU Member States and it is recognized that this is not a long term solution.
The EU StratCom examines the Kremlin's activities in the public space by countering the disinformation policy pursued in both Russia and EU countries. For example, 2000 disinformation stories and 60 myths about the EU were identified during one year when analyzing the Kremlin’s information about the shooting down of aircraft MH17 and attack on the humanitarian aid convoy in Syria.
As announced, on 20-21 October, M. Kučinskis is visiting Brussels to participate in work of the European Council.
Supplementary information:
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Phone: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv