National Digital Democracy Labs: Methodology introduction Webinar
01-04-2026
Online, 31 March 2026 – PRISMA Framework project brought together facilitators from partner organisations for a webinar introducing the methodology designed to ensure consistent, effective implementation of the National Digital Democracy Labs while remaining adaptable to local contexts. These activities will take place in 8 European countries - Austria, Spain, Greece, Hungary, Lithuania, Netherlands, Romania, and Slovakia, in April-May 2026.
About the methodology
At the heart of this methodology lies Digital Citizenship Education, a transformative approach that equips individuals with essential competencies for ethical, responsible engagement in the digital world.
As the Council of Europe articulates, "Digital citizenship is the capacity to participate actively, continuously and responsibly in communities online and offline, through competent and positive engagement with digital technologies."
The methodology prioritises five key pillars:
- Critical thinking and responsibility: Fostering thoughtful, careful online behaviour
- Positive collaboration: Building community and shared purpose in digital spaces
- Data protection awareness: Empowering individuals to safeguard personal and shared information
- Respect for rights and responsibilities: Ensuring ethical understanding of digital implications
- Lifelong learning: Enabling continuous adaptation to evolving digital landscapes
Four core topics
The National Digital Democracy Labs methodology centres on four interconnected core topics, each designed to address specific dimensions of digital citizenship:
| Core Topic | Focus Area | Local Adaptation |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Thinking & Media Literacy | Enhancing skills to find, evaluate, and create digital content responsibly | Incorporating local examples and scenarios for relevance |
| Digital Rights & Responsibilities | Educating about individual rights and duties in the digital world | Relating to pan-European legal frameworks and national contexts |
| Online Safety & Well-being | Safe internet practices, privacy protection, and cyberthreat awareness | Addressing region-specific online risks |
| Participation & Inclusion | Encouraging active digital participation in democratic processes | Discussing media's role within unique national political contexts |
The methodology equips facilitators with practical, scalable tools:
- Tailored activity sessions: Choose between 45-minute introductory or 90-minute in-depth formats
- Contextual guidance: Clear adaptation tips for national, cultural, and political relevance
- Comprehensive resources: Additional materials and links for effective workshop delivery
Building resilience through partnership
Under the PRISMA OG 2026 project framework, this methodology serves a dual purpose: it provides the blueprint for National Digital Democracy Labs while simultaneously inspiring activities during the European Digital Citizenship Education Week 2026. By equipping facilitators across multiple nations with consistent tools and shared principles, PRISMA is constructing a pan-European network of digital citizenship advocates.
As Europe faces unprecedented challenges around disinformation, polarisation, and democratic backsliding, this collaborative approach demonstrates that resilience is built through local implementation supported by European-wide coordination.
The path forward is clear: empowered facilitators, structured methodologies, and a shared commitment to digital citizenship education are the cornerstones of a more democratic, resilient digital Europe.