Addressing the impact of artificial intelligence, cyberviolence, and deepfakes on equality, democracy and inclusive societies

Overview

Funding for interdisciplinary research projects examining the societal, ethical, and legal impacts of AI-driven technologies—including deepfakes, cyberviolence, and disinformation—on equality, democracy, and social cohesion. Targets academic institutions, research organizations, and consortia developing evidence-based policy frameworks, detection tools, and public awareness initiatives.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., universities, research institutes, NGOs, public bodies, private companies) established in eligible countries. The Joint Research Centre (JRC) may participate as a beneficiary with zero funding or as an associated partner.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €5,000,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (lump-sum funding model)
• Total budget: Not specified

What Is Funded

• Research on AI’s role in exacerbating or mitigating inequalities (e.g., gender, racial, disability-based) and its impact on democratic processes, public trust, and social cohesion.
• Development of policy frameworks and tools for responsible AI governance, aligned with the EU AI Act and other relevant legislation (e.g., Digital Services Act, Directive on combating violence against women).
• Analysis of AI-driven cyberviolence (e.g., deepfakes, sextortion, online harassment) and its disproportionate effects on women, minorities, and youth.
• Interdisciplinary studies on AI’s influence on media narratives, public opinion, legal/policy decisions, and youth engagement.
• Creation of evidence-based tools for detecting and mitigating disinformation, deepfakes, and AI-facilitated harm, designed for policymakers, media, and the public.
• Collaboration with existing EU-funded projects and synergies with the JRC’s work on public governance.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• TRL range: 7–9 (system prototype demonstration in operational environment to actual system proven in operational environment).

Key Dates

• Open date: 2027-05-12
• Deadline: 2027-09-22

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must adhere to page limits and layout requirements outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.
• Evaluation based on standard Horizon Europe award criteria (excellence, impact, implementation).

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting: Standard Horizon Europe reporting requirements apply.
• Dissemination: Projects must share results with the JRC and align with EU AI strategy goals.
• Ownership/licensing: The granting authority may object to transfers of ownership or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries (Norway, Iceland, UK, Switzerland), and select non-associated countries with specific funding provisions.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Proposals must address all expected outcomes listed in the call description.
• Projects are encouraged to collaborate with the JRC and other EU-funded initiatives.
• Focus on interdisciplinary approaches, combining technical (e.g., computer science) and social sciences (e.g., law, ethics, gender studies).
• Lump-sum funding model applies; detailed budget tables required.