- The strategy is built around six main objectives: improving threat detection, preventing radicalisation
- EU officials said the new framework is designed to detect and prevent threats at an early stage
- An additional €30 million will be allocated to improve security in public areas
The European Commission on Thursday unveiled a fresh counterterrorism framework known as “ProtectEU,” designed to strengthen the bloc’s response to terrorism and violent extremism.
In a statement, the Commission said the plan is intended to address emerging security challenges, including the exploitation of digital platforms, the online radicalisation of young people, and rising geopolitical instability, Eko Hot Blog reports
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The strategy is built around six main objectives: improving threat detection, preventing radicalisation, enhancing online safety, safeguarding public spaces and vital infrastructure, ensuring effective crisis response, and deepening international partnerships.
As part of the initiative, the EU will expand its Single Intelligence Analysis Capacity and bolster the analytical role of Europol. Funding will also be directed toward research into new and potentially dangerous technologies, including artificial intelligence, drones and 3D-printed weapons. ProtectEU introduces new tools to curb extremism, including a “Prevention Toolbox” and a €5 million Community Engagement and Empowerment Programme aimed at supporting grassroots efforts and youth-focused initiatives.
The Commission also intends to update the Terrorist Content Online Regulation, step up collaboration with technology companies through the EU Internet Forum, and transform the existing EU Crisis Protocol into a more comprehensive Online Crisis Response Framework. An additional €30 million will be allocated to improve security in public areas. The strategy further outlines steps to tighten oversight of terrorism financing, including the monitoring of cryptocurrency transactions.
Cooperation beyond the EU will also be reinforced, particularly with Mediterranean and Western Balkan countries, to facilitate intelligence-sharing and coordinated counterterrorism operations.
EU officials said the new framework is designed to detect and prevent threats at an early stage while ensuring swift and coordinated action in the event of an attack.
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