Madrid, 13 April 2026. – Access Info Europe has joined a broad coalition of over 500 organisations from across Europe calling on EU decision-makers to significantly increase funding for democracy, independent media, and civil society in the next EU budget.
In a joint letter sent to EU leaders, the coalition urges the European Commission, Council and Parliament to back the European Parliament’s proposal to reinforce the budget of AgoraEU — a new programme designed to support culture, media, and fundamental rights under a single framework.
For Access Info Europe, this is not just a budget discussion — it is about protecting the conditions that make democratic participation possible. Without adequate and accessible funding, essential actors cannot continue to play their role in defending transparency, accountability, and fundamental rights.
Defending the foundations of democracy
The joint call comes at a time when democratic systems in Europe are facing multiple, overlapping challenges — from disinformation and foreign interference to shrinking civic space and declining trust in institutions.
For organisations working on access to information, these trends are deeply interconnected. Limited transparency fuels distrust, while weakened media and civil society reduce the public’s ability to scrutinise decision-making and participate meaningfully in democratic life.
AgoraEU represents an important step forward by recognising that media freedom, civic participation, and fundamental rights are part of the same democratic ecosystem. However, the coalition warns that the current proposed budget falls short of what is needed to respond to these challenges effectively.
From commitment to concrete support
Access Info Europe highlights that EU commitments to democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights must be matched by sustained financial support. Civil society organisations across Europe are already facing increasing financial strain, with many reporting that funding shortages are limiting their ability to operate and respond to growing needs.
By supporting a stronger AgoraEU, Access Info and its partners are calling for an EU budget that reflects the scale and urgency of the current moment. This includes not only increasing the programme’s overall funding, but also ensuring that it is accessible to grassroots organisations, supports independent media, and strengthens protections for those defending fundamental rights.
“Investing in transparency and access to information is investing in trust, participation, and resilient democratic institutions,” claims Access Info Europe. The signing organisations urge EU institutions to prioritise AgoraEU in the ongoing negotiations on the next Multiannual Financial Framework.