How can we shape the future of democracy through media literacy? In today’s complex media landscape, critically understanding how information is produced, circulated, consumed and used by various audiences is crucial to upholding democratic values. In this context, TEPSA hosted the “Media Literacy for Democracy” Skills Lab, an empowering, hands-on training within the RECLAIM (Reclaiming Liberal Democracy in the Post-Factual Age) Horizon Europe project. Held in Brussels from 17-21 March 2025, under the guidance of Dr Ricardo Castellini da Silva, this immersive 5-day lab provided 14 students and young professionals with a chance to engage with experts and connect with like-minded peers from across Europe.

Through interactive lectures, hands-on exercises, dynamic brainstorming sessions, and exclusive meetings with EU policy-makers and civil society organisations, participants gained essential tools to counter misinformation, drive civic engagement, and promote informed decision-making.

Objectives

The Skills Lab aimed to provide participants with a solid foundation in media literacy. Through a mix of lectures, practical exercises, and workshops, this programme helped them understand the dynamics of misinformation, media bias, and online civic discourse, equipping them with tools to confidently navigate the media landscape. Participants did not just learn about media literacy, they put it into practice through real-world case studies and scenario-based exercises. They had the opportunity to network with EU policy-makers and civil society organisations working in the field of media literacy, and connect with like-minded peers dedicated to strengthening democratic values through responsible media practices.

Submission of applications

The call for applications for the RECLAIM Skills Lab was open to Master’s students and young professionals (up to two years after graduation) from diverse fields including:

• education,
• media and communication,
• political science,
• EU affairs,
• and other related disciplines.

We welcomed applications from those interested in understanding and strengthening the role of media in supporting democratic values. Applications were open to both EU and non-EU citizens. To apply, students were asked to complete an application form by Sunday 26 January 2025 (midnight).

Terms and Conditions

Participation in the Media Literacy for Democracy Skills Lab was free of charge. To confirm their seat, selected applicants were asked to submit a deposit of 100 EUR, to be refunded upon participation in the seminar. Additionally, TEPSA provided reimbursement of travel and accommodation expenses up to 300 EUR upon receipt of original tickets and receipts, and participants received a 15 EUR per diem for each day where lunch was not provided.