In light of the evolving challenges posed by the digital information environment, the Independent Countering Disinformation Centre (ICDC) has commissioned a legal study to assess Moldova’s current regulatory framework governing online platforms and digital media.

This study — conducted by international expert Deirdre Kevin, with the support of the UK Government — analyses European standards and practices and identifies key gaps to be addressed in order to enhance the process of countering disinformation. The research process also incorporated insights from a broad consultative dialogue with national stakeholders, including the Parliamentary Committee for Culture, Education, Research, Youth, Sport and Media, the Audiovisual Council, the Centre for Strategic Communication and Combating Disinformation (StratCom), and civil society organisations such as the Electronic Press Association (APEL) and the Independent Journalism Center (IJC).

The report provides a comprehensive assessment of Moldova’s legal and policy framework in relation to disinformation, with a particular focus on media legislation and its alignment with European standards. It highlights vulnerabilities in Moldova’s information space, including internal and external threats, and provides evidence-based recommendations for strengthening the country’s resilience to disinformation.

Understanding the Threat Landscape

The report underscores Moldova’s vulnerability to disinformation campaigns, primarily originating from Russia and amplified by local actors. These campaigns exploit societal divisions and manipulate public discourse through both traditional and online media, including social media platforms. The narratives target Moldova’s European path, aiming to undermine trust in democratic institutions and promote pro-Russian sentiments.

Media Law and EU Alignment

While EU legal frameworks such as the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) and the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) do not explicitly define disinformation, they establish the foundations for a transparent, pluralistic, and independent media environment. Moldova’s recent legislative amendments—especially to the Audiovisual Media Code and the Law on Advertising—are steps toward alignment with these EU instruments.

The proposed Draft Law on Media also aims to bring online media into the regulatory fold, introducing mandatory registration, content standards, and transparency requirements.

Digital Services Act and Systemic Risks

The Digital Services Act (DSA), though not directly defining disinformation as illegal, addresses it as a “systemic risk” for very large online platforms. Moldova is encouraged to align its legal framework with the DSA as part of its EU accession process. The report notes challenges in designating a national Digital Services Coordinator and recommends enhanced cooperation between regulatory bodies to manage obligations under the DSA.

Safeguarding Elections and Public Discourse

The report also addresses the regulation of political advertising, especially online, and recommends expanding Moldova’s legal framework to reflect EU efforts to ensure transparency during elections. These reforms are crucial in the context of Moldova’s upcoming presidential and constitutional votes.

Strategic Communication and Civil Society Resilience

The report recognises the important roles played by Moldova’s regulatory institutions and civil society. It highlights the work of StratCom, the Audiovisual Council, and media-focused CSOs in promoting media literacy, monitoring disinformation, and supporting high-quality journalism.

Key Recommendations

The study concludes with several recommendations:

• Ensure consistent definitions and alignment across all media laws;
• Finalise and adopt the Law on Media with provisions addressing online media;
• Enhance inter-institutional cooperation, including formal structures to implement the DSA;
• Invest in institutional capacity-building and support from EU and international partners;
• Expand incentives for voluntary registration of media outlets, promoting accountability and access to public resources.

In light of the upcoming elections and persistent hybrid threats, this report serves as an important roadmap for strengthening Moldova’s democratic resilience and securing its information space.