Narratives are the invisible structures through which we order and understand reality. They are more than just stories; they are the cognitive building blocks of the public sphere. By deciphering the emotions, values, and mental frameworks behind public discourse, we can navigate the complexities of a “post-truth” society without infringing on the fundamental right to freedom of speech.
The Narratives Observatory combatting Disinformation in Europe Systemically (NODES) is the first pan-European initiative dedicated to the systemic analysis and reframing of the narratives that shape our world. While traditional fact-checking addresses the “symptoms” of disinformation, NODES addresses the root-cause: the narrative traps and cognitive silos that allow misinformation to take root.
Launched in 2024 as a pilot project financed by the European Commission, the founding consortium of NODES led by Re-Imagine Europa included top level institutions and organisations as Agence
The Science of Reframing
Building on the initial NODES’ research, Re-Imagine Europa developed the proprietary REFRAME Methodology, a scientific approach to tackle narrative-based disinformation and polarisation by:
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Mapping the Narrative Landscape: Identifying how ideas spread and where discourse becomes polarized.
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Diagnosing Narrative Traps: Uncovering the “legacy frames” that act as strategic bottlenecks for policy and innovation.
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Building Narrative Bridges: Discovering shared “Value Anchors” to foster constructive, inclusive dialogue between fragmented communities.
Working with an extended network of partners across Europe, we are building the “Narrative Intelligence” required to ensure that Europe’s transitions—green, digital, and social—are built on a foundation of shared understanding and collective ambition.