Local Awareness Event – Nicosia, February 2025

As the EUCOMMvsDISINFO project nears its conclusion, we had the opportunity to host a meaningful local awareness event in Nicosia this February. Organized as part of the project's final phase, the event brought together local educators, youth workers, civil society representatives, students, and members of the public for an engaging discussion on disinformation and media literacy.

The event served as both a reflection and a celebration—highlighting the knowledge, tools, and collaborative efforts developed throughout the duration of the EUCOMMvsDISINFO project. Participants revisited key outcomes from the international workshops and explored how the learnings from these sessions can be applied locally to help individuals better identify and respond to fake news and disinformation.

Central to the discussion were the risks that disinformation poses to democracy, public trust, and social cohesion. Through interactive sessions, personal storytelling, and informal dialogues, attendees examined local examples of misinformation and explored the importance of critical thinking, fact-checking, and responsible digital engagement.

One of the most powerful elements of the event was the exchange of personal reflections on the first time participants realized the media had misled them—an activity introduced during the Cyprus workshop and brought to the local level in Nicosia. This shared experience created a space for empathy, critical reflection, and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by citizens navigating today's complex information landscape.

We also had the opportunity to present the project’s key tools and resources—such as the EDMO platform and EU fact-checking portals—and discuss how these can continue to support local awareness and education efforts beyond the lifespan of the project.

The Nicosia event was a reminder that fighting disinformation is not the responsibility of one sector alone. It requires ongoing commitment from educators, journalists, institutions, and citizens alike. As we move toward the final phase of EUCOMMvsDISINFO, we are proud of the partnerships formed, the knowledge shared, and the awareness raised across all participating countries.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, insights, and energy to this important conversation in Nicosia. The journey doesn’t end here—together, we remain committed to promoting truth, transparency, and democratic resilience in our communities.