Pegasus is a spyware developed by NSO Group, known for its capability to hijack a smartphone's microphone and camera and to access personal data, including emails, text messages and documents. It gained significant attention following a 2021 disclosure indicating that around 50,000 individuals may have been targeted by the malware. The targeting of journalists, human rights defenders and politicians, in particular, sparked public outrage.

Following the scandal, the European Parliament established a Committee of Inquiry to investigate the use of Pegasus and similar spyware (PEGA Committee). The Committee aimed to address potential violations or mismanagement in the enforcement of EU law regarding Pegasus and similar tools. After 14 months of comprehensive hearings, research, and inquiries, PEGA concluded its report, proposing recommendations, such as a conditional moratorium and a European regulatory framework. However, some countries, such as Greece and Poland, did not agree with these recommendations, leading to ongoing controversies.

During the "super-election year" 2024, addressing this issue was more essential than ever, as it may impact democracy by silencing critical voices and manipulating public opinion, threatening the rule of law and democratic institutions.

At its 5 March 2024 panel discussion, FNF Europe examined the use of such intrusive spyware. Speakers included Renew Europe MEP Moritz Körner, Vice-Chair of the PEGA Committee, Sophie in't Veld, Rapporteur of the PEGA Committee to parliament, Quentin Liger, Director of Asterisk Research and Analysis, and Scott Griffen, Deputy Director of the International Press Institute. Teresa Widlok, Head of the FNF Global Themes Division and expert on civil rights, moderated the event. As discussions around digital sovereignty and cybersecurity become more urgent, the event examined how Pegasus affects online privacy and freedoms by delving into surveillance software investigations and the EU's efforts to ensure a balanced approach to privacy and security regulation.