The opening of the 2026 Connecting EU Seminar in Bulgaria served as a poignant reminder that in our rapidly evolving digital age, the most powerful tool for defending democracy is a well-educated public. Zornitsa Roussinova, President of the Economic and Social Council of Bulgaria, set a stirring tone for the event, reminding attendees that knowledge is the ultimate antidote to the poisons of manipulation and disinformation. By focusing on the theme “In Defense of European Values: The Power of Civil Society,” the conference underscored that truth is not merely a political necessity but a fundamental pillar of our shared humanity. Roussinova’s assertion that a solid education makes us significantly more resilient against those who seek to distort reality highlights a crucial responsibility for both policymakers and citizens to invest in critical thinking as a matter of national and continental security.
Beyond the classroom, Roussinova touched upon the fraying fabric of modern society, noting how disinformation acts as a catalyst for deep-seated division and tribalism. As we navigate an era where headlines are often weaponized, she advocated for a return to the foundational European principles of consensus, dialogue, and mutual trust. It is easy to take the progress of the last few decades for granted; however, as she pointedly reminded the audience, the freedom of movement we enjoy today—far removed from the oppressive visa lines of the past—is a privilege that must be guarded. Embracing the benefits of the Schengen Area and the integration of the euro requires a reciprocal commitment to the values that made such unity possible in the first place, reinforcing that our identity is inherently woven into the broader European tapestry.
Yet, identity and high-level politics often feel distant when compared to the visceral reality of household budgets and rising living costs. Roussinova demonstrated a keen sense of empathy by acknowledging that, for the average citizen in Bulgaria and across the continent, the “big picture” is often eclipsed by the immediate struggle to make ends meet. When inflation bites and the cost of daily necessities climbs, it is not enough for leaders to speak in abstract terms about sovereignty or economic policy. Politicians must instead demonstrate a commitment to practical, tangible solutions that alleviate these shared burdens. Only when leaders address the granular stressors of daily life can they hope to maintain the trust and engagement of the people they serve.
This sense of insecurity is compounded by a world that feels increasingly volatile, marked by the persistent threat of climate change and the shadow of conflict in Ukraine. From the literal fires and floods ravaging our landscapes to the figurative fires of geopolitical instability, citizens are understandably anxious about the future. Roussinova argued that this climate of uncertainty is exactly where the disconnect between the government and the governed often occurs. If the European mission is to mean anything to the person on the street, it must prove its worth by providing security and stability in the face of these existential threats. It is not sufficient to point to the benefits of the past; the focus must remain squarely on how European cooperation mitigates the dangers of the future.
Recognizing that the burden of this defense cannot rest on the shoulders of governments alone, the Economic and Social Council has taken an active role in fostering a collaborative environment. By bringing together a diverse coalition of employers, trade unions, media professionals, and non-governmental organizations, these seminars act as a pressure-tested forum for civil society to find its voice. This network is vital because it creates a decentralized defense against misinformation. When disparate groups—who may not always agree on policy—find unity in their commitment to truth and civil discourse, they form an essential barrier against the spread of fake news and malicious propaganda, ensuring that the public square remains a place for constructive debate rather than orchestrated chaos.
Ultimately, the seminar served as an invitation to all of us to reaffirm our commitment to the values that define our society. By launching initiatives designed to empower civil society in the fight against disinformation, Roussinova and her colleagues are championing an approach that relies on transparency and inclusivity. As we look ahead, the lesson is clear: protecting our democratic values is not a spectator sport, nor is it a task for politicians behind closed doors. It is a shared endeavor that requires us to be more vigilant, more educated, and more mindful of the narratives we consume. By anchoring ourselves in facts and fostering open, honest communication, we can protect the strength and unity of Europe, ensuring that it remains a beacon of stability for the generations to follow.