Understanding where young people get their news, which sources they trust, and how they filter online information has become essential in the digital age. A new nationwide study conducted by the Youth Media Center (YMC)—an ICDC partner—offers a comprehensive look into how Moldovan teenagers engage with information in 2025.

A youth-led national research effort

The research was carried out between january and may 2025 using a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative). The #media10tion network of youth media promoters played a central role in designing and distributing a 44-question survey, reaching 862 respondents aged 14–19 across 31 districts and municipalities.

Top sources: tiktok, google… And parents

When asked how they stay informed, the most frequently used sources were:

• Tiktok (26%)
• Instagram (14%)
• News websites (13%)

However, when it comes to trust, the rankings shift:

• News websites (22%)
• Conversations with parents (18%)
• Television (10%)

Over 30% of young people said they use web browsers like google or safari to look up information, and 11% now rely on ai tools such as chatgpt for schoolwork and research.

Chatgpt: tool or shortcut?

Focus group participants frequently mentioned using ai applications to complete homework. While they acknowledged the time-saving benefits, many also admitted that it can hinder critical thinking. As one student put it: “we don’t think anymore—we just copy.”

Angela vacaru, author of the study, cautioned: “artificial intelligence is a powerful tool, but it should enhance learning, not replace it.”

Online every day, but rarely creating

The study highlights a clear contrast between digital presence and active participation:

• 89% of teens use social media daily;
• 83% are passive consumers (scrolling, watching, reading);
• Only 8% post regularly.

Instagram, tiktok, and youtube are the most widely used platforms, viewed more as entertainment and social spaces than as educational tools.

Digital skills and media literacy: mixed results

• The overall aim (access, interpretation, and media resilience) index scored 3.5 out of 5, with the highest marks in online safety and resilience.
• The freedom of expression index was 3.8, with more confidence in expressing opinions at home than in school.
• Only 2% of teens experience real parental control via monitoring apps.
• Although 82% say they know how to report fake content, 36% have never done so.

Civic initiatives and strategic response

The independent center for combating disinformation (icdc) views these findings as essential for planning future strategic interventions. In cooperation with local and international partners, icdc will continue to support educational initiatives, awareness campaigns, and training programs for youth, educators, and parents—thus contributing to the development of a culture rooted in critical thinking and civic responsibility.

Conclusion

Moldovan youth are deeply connected, tech-savvy, and curious—but they need more structured support, guidance, and opportunities to develop their media literacy and critical thinking. Media education remains essential—not optional—for preparing informed and resilient citizens.

🔗 [Download the full report – https://tineri.md/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Indexul-YOUTH-MIL_-2025-.pdf

The study was conducted by the Youth Media Center (CMT), with financial support from the Institute for War & Peace Reporting (IWPR) and the Government of the United Kingdom. The views and conclusions expressed do not necessarily reflect the official position of the UK Government.