Media Literacy and E-Democracy in the EU

Media Literacy and E-Democracy in the EU examines the crucial role of media literacy in strengthening e-democracy within the European Union.

In an era where digital media increasingly shape democratic processes, the EU faces both new opportunities and challenges in promoting active citizenship and transparent governance. This book explores how media education aimed at advancing digital media literacy can serve as the foundation for informed and responsible civic engagement, helping to build a more resilient democratic society. Drawing on a comprehensive analysis of current e-democracy initiatives in the EU, the book offers a fresh perspective on the relevance of media education to advance citizens’ digital media literacy. It focuses on the EU due to its unique governance features and distinct digital policy framework. However, its insights and best practices are relevant globally, as media literacy and democratic engagement are universal challenges. The interplay between fast advancements of digitalisation of communication, media literacy and citizens’ ability and willingness to participate actively in public affairs is examined in depth.

Interdisciplinary in approach, Media Literacy and E-Democracy in the EU will interest students and scholars in political science, media studies, sociology and European studies, as well as policymakers and civil society actors focused on digital governance and civic engagement. Media professionals, journalists and educators will also find it valuable for understanding and shaping democratic participation in the digital age.

Author Biography

Mateja Rek is a Professor at the Faculty of Information Studies in Novo Mesto and the School of Advanced Social Studies in Nova Gorica, Slovenia. Her research focuses on media education and literacy, drawing on extensive findings from the Infrastructure Program on Media Literacy, a project she leads that has been collecting, managing and archiving data on media literacy in Slovenia since 2013. She is also a researcher in the program Development Processes and Interactions in the Digital Society at the Faculty of Information Studies, funded by the Slovene Research and Innovation Agency, and a member of the European Network on Digitalization and E-Governance, a Jean Monnet Policy Debate project funded by Erasmus+.