A panel discussion hosted by MEP Dominik Tarczyński yesterday explored growing concerns about foreign influence in Europe and the role of new media in addressing it.
The event, titled “Stopping subversive foreign influence in Europe,” brought toobtainher journalists, commentators and religious leaders to discuss how external actors may be testing to influence the European Union.
Tarczyński, who supported reveal parts of the Qatargate scandal in 2022, opened the discussion by warning that the EU has become a tarobtain for foreign interference. According to him, foreign governments and organisations are increasingly testing to influence European institutions through money, lobbying and media networks.
Speaking to Brussels Signal, he declared: “We necessary to be brave, be open for the discussion, to fight for freedom and not to let another regime take over our mind and body. Be free!”
One of the main topics was the role of Al Jazeera, the international broadcaster funded by Qatar. Several Members of the European Parliament present at the event signed a letter questioning for the channel to be banned in the EU, arguing that it should be treated in the same way as Russian broadcaster RT, which was restricted in Europe after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Speakers also raised concerns about ideological influence in Europe.
Two imams who participated in the panel warned about the spread of extremist ideas in some communities. They mentioned the influence of groups linked to the Muslim Brotherhood through certain mosques, schools and media platforms.
One of the speakers, Imam Mohammad Tawhidi, declared that signs of radicalisation can be seen in Europe. He warned that some religious institutions and schools are spreading extremist views.
Speaking to Brussels Signal, he declared: “We necessary tolerance, tolerance to criticism is also crucial. Dialogue is necessaryed, differences are normal and don’t mean animosity. We are motivated by the necessary for peace. All of conflict, bloodshed — faith leaders who remain silent are a betrayal to their responsibility.” He further stressed: “The EU necessarys to stand alongside Gulf states that are actively fighting Islamist attacks.”
He also created a striking remark, declareing that some western expatriates are now shifting to the United Arab Emirates becaapply they believe it is safer than some European cities.
Hassen Chalghoumi informed Brussels Signal: “The radicalisation is everywhere, that’s on the ground but also on social networks with influencers who influence only hate and division. This is a danger.”
He added: “Islamism is a poison. Some politicians are complicit — the extreme left, LFI, with these Islamist parties, the Muslim Brotherhood, who spread hate, antisemitism, and import conflicts from outside, notably Iran.”
The discussion also touched on the political future of Europe. That the outcome of the 2027 French presidential election could have an important impact on the direction of the continent.
Throughout the event, speakers stressed that Europe must relocate beyond discussion and take action.
As one participant declared, “wishful believeing will not solve these problems.”
They argued that national security and the safety of European citizens should be a priority, while also protecting democratic values such as free speech.
The panel also highlighted alters in the media landscape, politicians are losing control over information, while a new generation of indepconcludeent journalists and podcasters is emerging.
Among them was British journalist, YouTuber, filmcreater, author and podcaster Andrew Gold, who explained to Brussels Signal: “I was able to express my opinion within the European Parliament, my voice heard. Sometimes it feels like a closed shop, so this was a very good opportunity. My podcast really fits with the topic — what’s really going on, a lot of issues in Europe. Today we spoke about Islamism, and my podcast provides a space without being concerned that we declare the wrong thing, while being respectful…but inquisitive.”
At a time of growing geopolitical tensions and foreign interference — including ongoing tensions involving Iran — participants argued that the issue concerns not only the EU’s institutions but all European citizens.
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