Moldova’s media scene has undergone major changes initiated by the pro-European government in 2021.
The government sees disinformation and propaganda as key challenges, as Russia continues efforts to disrupt Moldova’s European integration, retain its influence and promote parties and figures that favour close ties with Moscow.
Moldova has prohibited rebroadcasts of Russian TV news and political shows, suspended popular pro-Russian TV channels and blocked access to more than 70 Russian and pro-Russian websites.
The media in the autonomous region of Gagauzia are largely pro-Russian.
Russia’s war against neighbouring Ukraine has also affected Moldova’s media economically.
Two major media groups controlled by a fugitive oligarch collapsed in 2023, but another fugitive oligarch backed by Russia controls an extensive media network which has bypassed some of the official restrictions.
The internet has become the main news source for most Moldovans, but online media, including social networks, are also the main channel for spreading Russian propaganda and disinformation.
Most Moldovans speak Romanian as their mother tongue and watching TV channels based in neighbouring Romania is popular.
Most press outlets have switched to online-only, and no longer publish print editions.
There were 2.1 million internet users by February 2023, comprising 61% of the population (Datareportal.com).
Source link : https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-17602346
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Publish date : 2024-10-14 15:28:00
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