Law Enforcement Cooperation in the Prevention and Countering of Disinformation

The growing impact of disinformation on public trust, democratic processes, and national security has made the prevention and countering of disinformation a strategic priority for law enforcement agencies. This paper explores the role of police cooperation -both national and international - in identifying, preventing, and responding to disinformation campaigns, particularly those amplified through digital platforms and social media. Law enforcement authorities, in collaboration with cybersecurity units, must adapt their operational frameworks to detect and address coordinated information manipulation. Romania, as a member of the European Union and signatory to multiple international agreements, actively participates in joint operations, data sharing, and institutional efforts through bodies such as Europol, Eurojust, and the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats. Additionally, the involvement of civil society, media organizations, and private tech companies is essential for building resilience against disinformation. The paper argues that successful prevention requires a multidimensional approach: legal harmonization, technical capacity building, and the strengthening of cross-border cooperation mechanisms. In this context, Romania’s growing institutional capability and engagement in EU-led initiatives underline its strategic role in the regional fight against disinformation.