As Moldova prepares for its next parliamentary election, the integrity of public information is under increasing pressure. The spread of disinformation—often amplified by digital platform algorithms and AI-generated content—poses growing risks to democratic discourse. Coupled with threats against journalists , these challenges undermine the electoral process and the public’s ability to make informed choices.
To counter this, UNESCO and ADEPT have launched an initiative to reinforce information integrity and democratic resilience. The programme aims to empower local journalists, media professionals and civil society organisations with the tools to identify and respond to attempts at manipulation and disinformation.
On 3-4 July, the first training of trainers was held in Chisinau, where experts and participants analysed the mechanisms of disinformation, its influence on freedom of expression and on polarised societal dynamics.
Igor Botan, executive director of ADEPT, emphasized the importance of addressing this challenge: “Disinformation, based on fear and manipulation, is becoming an effective weapon in influencing elections. We must build defensive capacities, taking inspiration from the UN global principles on information integrity and other efforts of the UN System.”
During the training, UNESCO facilitated sessions on the impact of the evolving digital landscape on freedom of expression, as well as on harmful electoral practices that affect citizens’ access to information. The Guidelines on the Governance of Digital Platforms were introduced and participants discussed the relevance of a rights-based multi-stakeholder approach to addressing the challenges of preserving the civic space online.
As the participants worked on strategies and tools to safeguard information integrity and uphold digital safety, the workshop also addressed growing threats to press freedom in the electoral context. UNESCO highlighted the vulnerability of journalists who cover elections and outlined its work on safety of journalists under the UN Plan of Action on Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity. Journalists and media workers among the participants described instances of harassment, intimidation and even physical violence that affect those reporting on elections and politics in Moldova. This issue is perceived as a crucial priority by public authorities and while the workshop was ongoing the speaker of the Moldovan Parliament announced upcoming legislative reforms to enhance safety of journalists.
The outcomes of the first training will form the basis to build further knowledge at local level. UNESCO will continue supporting the work of ADEPT to empower representatives of regional media, civil society organizations, opinion leaders, and news content creators with the experience and the instruments to enhance transparency, accuracy and safety of reporting ahead of elections.
