From state propaganda to current political communication - how information manipulation has changed over a century in Italy
As lead partner of the FREI – From Resistance to European Integration project, we are pleased to announce the upcoming local workshop organised by our Italian partner in Rome. The event will bring together high school students, young citizens, teachers, and community members for an engaging two-day programme exploring Europe’s democratic foundations and the evolution of information manipulation over the past century.
The workshop will focus on three interconnected themes:
the role of state propaganda during the Fascist regime,
the importance of the Italian Resistance in shaping democratic development,
and the transition from historical state-controlled narratives to current political communication and contemporary forms of information manipulation.
Ahead of the event, participating students will take part in preparatory classes led by their teachers, using digital materials developed within the FREI project. These sessions are designed to give them a solid grounding in the historical context so they can engage more deeply with the workshop content.
During the two-day programme, participants will attend a thematic presentation, examine historical photos and video materials illustrating propaganda practices under Fascism, and take part in a World Café-style discussion.
This workshop represents an important milestone in the FREI project, funded by the EU’s CERV – Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme. FREI examines the diverse transitions of five EU member states — Italy, Austria, Greece, Portugal, and Romania — from totalitarian regimes to democracy and, eventually, EU integration. Through local and international meetings, the project encourages young people and citizens to reflect on Europe’s complex history and its ongoing commitment to human rights and democratic values.
More detailed information about the event and the related online exhibition will be available in the project’s Guide Book.

