The number of cases of intimidation against journalists in Moldova continues to increase, despite legal guarantees protecting freedom of expression. According to the European Commission’s annual report on the situation in Moldova, 56 cases of aggression against the press were registered in 2022, 43 cases in 2023, and 66 cases in 2024.
The report notes that, although authorities have publicly condemned such incidents, most cases remain unresolved.
“Journalists face frequent obstruction in Gagauzia, often being denied access to meetings of the People’s Assembly and receiving threats from protesters or local officials,” the document states.
It also highlights that journalists from the right bank of the Dniester River continue to experience restrictions on entering the Transnistrian region, imposed by the de facto administration, and face the risk of detention.
In the context of the 2024 elections and referendum, several journalists reportedly received death threats, while the public broadcasting building was vandalized as part of what EU representatives describe as a broader scheme of external destabilization.
European officials note that amendments to the Criminal Code, adopted in July 2025, have strengthened journalist protections, introducing stricter penalties for intimidation—including online harassment—as well as for violence or threats directed at media professionals.