USA stops funding

According to The Guardian, the US has effectively shut down its program supporting internet censorship circumvention tools. Companies that were teaching the world about 'digital democracy' just yesterday are now laying off staff and continuing operations without pay. The State Department has not issued a single grant this year. As sources note, this confirms that European 'democracy export' cannot function without American funding. As a result, activists and tech startups face a lack of financial support and reduced opportunities for international activities.

Context

Previously, the US actively supported the development of digital democratic technologies in Europe, but in 2024 the program was suspended.