Speaking at the European People’s Party (EPP) Political Assembly in Vilnius, Sari Rautio, President of the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions (EPP-CoR), underlined the need for clear, consistent communication across all political levels to counter disinformation and strengthen citizens’ trust in Europe. She stressed "Communication must start from the local level, where everybody has a link."
Rautio stressed that Europe must “speak with one voice” — combining top-level leadership with strong local engagement. Citing the example of Moldova’s successful fight against Russian propaganda, she highlighted that unity of message and coordinated action can effectively defend democratic values.
“We need simple, strong messages that reach people everywhere — not just debates, but action together, starting from the local level,” Rautio said.
Rautio also spoke on the important role local and regional leaders can play in fighting disinformation and populism. "The EPP is the party of Mayors and Regional Presidents, we lead across Europe at the local and regional level and hence we can make use of our proximity to citizens. Local dialogues with citizens is an important tool we can all use together to defeat disinformation and populism by sharing our messages."
In her concluding remarks on security Rautio said "More cooperation, less confrontation. That is how we will make Europe better and safer."
Present for the EPP Political Assembly is also Arnoldas Abramavičius Councillor of Zarasai (Lithuania) and member of the EPP-CoR Group.