On 1 April 2025, the European Commission introduced ProtectEU, a significant new strategy aimed at enhancing security across the European Union. The initiative is designed to address rising threats, including terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, and attacks on critical infrastructure. The strategy builds on previous efforts and integrates various tools and agencies to create a more resilient and secure Europe.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised that “Security is a prerequisite for open societies, a strong economy and freedom.” With growing challenges in the digital world, the Commission aims to equip member states and law enforcement authorities with the tools and intelligence needed to respond effectively to these evolving threats.
Key Objectives and Measures of ProtectEU:
A New European Security Governance Framework:
ProtectEU introduces a structured approach to include security in all major EU initiatives. It will feature regular threat assessments and reporting to the European Parliament and Council.Improved Threat Anticipation and Intelligence Sharing:
The EU will enhance the exchange of intelligence and threat data between member states and agencies, such as Europol, enabling faster and more coordinated responses to security risks.More vigorous Law Enforcement and Judicial Capacities:
Europol will receive a new mandate, and cooperation among Eurojust, Frontex, ENISA (the EU Agency for Cybersecurity), and national agencies will be strengthened. A new cross-border secure communication system will also be developed.Resilience Against Hybrid Threats and Cyberattacks:
The strategy calls for enhanced protection of critical infrastructure, improved cybersecurity frameworks, and more robust defences against online and hybrid threats.Combating Serious and Organised Crime:
Measures include a new legal framework targeting organised crime networks, updated drug trafficking strategies, and child protection initiatives.Fighting Terrorism and Violent Extremism:
The Commission plans to launch a new EU agenda for tackling terrorism and radicalisation, including an EU-wide mechanism to track and prevent the financing of terrorism.Making the EU a Strong Global Security Actor:
Through ProtectEU, the EU aims to strengthen international cooperation and establish partnerships with key global and regional security stakeholders.
This initiative is part of a broader effort that includes the Preparedness Union Strategy, the European Defence White Paper, and the forthcoming European Democracy Shield.
For consumer protection organisations, such as EFRI, this initiative is highly relevant. As online fraud and cyber-enabled financial crimes continue to rise, especially against small investors and vulnerable consumers, the measures outlined in ProtectEU can provide stronger legal and operational frameworks for identifying and countering such threats.
