On April 1st, 2025, the European Commission introduced ProtectEU, a major new strategy aimed at enhancing security across the European Union. The initiative is designed to address rising threats such as terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, and attacks on critical infrastructure. The strategy builds on previous efforts and integrates various tools and agencies to create a more resilient, secure Europe
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized 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 like Europol, enabling faster and more coordinated responses to security risks.Stronger 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 increased protection of critical infrastructure, better cybersecurity frameworks, and stronger defenses against online and hybrid threats.Combatting Serious and Organized Crime:
Measures include a new legal framework targeting organized 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 radicalization, including an EU-wide mechanism to track terrorism financing.Making the EU a Strong Global Security Actor:
Through ProtectEU, the EU seeks to deepen international cooperation and forge partnerships with key global and regional security actors.
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 organizations like 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.
