As Moldova approaches its 2025 parliamentary elections, the country’s information space is growing increasingly tense, and the influence of social media platforms is surging. Petru Macovei, Director of the Association of Independent Press, made this observation during an interview with the REALITATEA media group.
Macovei stated that manipulation of public opinion through platforms like Telegram, TikTok, and influencer networks has become more visible. He identified the lack of critical thinking and media literacy as major challenges facing Moldovan society.
“As usual, before elections, the information space becomes more strained because certain political forces attempt to influence the media market,” Macovei said.
He emphasized that manipulation now occurs more through social media and online platforms than through traditional media channels.
“The Audiovisual Council is doing its job well, but the internet and social networks remain unregulated, and any attempt to regulate them faces strong resistance,” he added.
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Macovei highlighted the growing role of Telegram and TikTok in spreading propaganda. He pointed to recurring narratives such as the alleged “militarization of the country” and claims that Moldova intends to join the war in Ukraine against Russia. He also noted the persistence of old myths, like the idea that “foreigners will buy Moldovan land,” which resurface during every election cycle.
According to Macovei, roughly 85% of disinformation campaigns follow a coordinated pattern:
“A narrative first appears on an anonymous website, then traditional media pick it up, and influencers amplify it—reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of people.”
Macovei concluded that the biggest obstacle remains the public’s rejection of verified information:
“People prefer to live inside their own information bubbles and deny reality, making the fight against disinformation much harder. Overcoming this challenge will require consistent public education and efforts to rebuild trust in verified news sources as Moldova approaches a critical electoral period.”