CDMSI adopts policy document on national media and information literacy strategies

IRIS 2026-1:1/19

Freedom of Expression and CDMSI Division

Council of Europe

During its 28th plenary meeting held between 3 and 5 December 2025, the Council of Europe’s Steering Committee on Media and Information Society (CDMSI) adopted a policy document entitled “National Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Strategies: Practical Steps and Indicators”.

The policy document aims to support governments in developing comprehensive national strategies that strengthen citizens’ ability to access, critically evaluate, and responsibly create and share information throughout life. It contains guidelines structured around five interconnected policy areas: strong political leadership and coherent policy and regulatory frameworks; the development of a robust evidence base to inform policymaking and measure progress; the systematic integration of MIL across formal, non-formal and lifelong education, supported by training and quality learning resources; inclusive citizen empowerment through awareness-raising and engagement initiatives, with particular attention to vulnerable and under-represented groups; and sustained multi-stakeholder cooperation among public authorities, regulatory bodies, media, civil society, academia and the private sector. An explanatory report and practical indicators accompany the document to support effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement.