In late October, the Independent Countering Disinformation Centre (ICDC) hosted a new edition of its Discussion Club, bringing together members of its partner network to exchange ideas on how Moldova’s information environment is evolving in the aftermath of the parliamentary elections.

The conversation focused on the opportunities and challenges of this new stage. With a pro-European majority now shaping Moldova’s political direction, participants agreed that the months ahead should be about reflection, adjustment, and planning, moving from the intensity of the campaign period toward longer-term strategies for strengthening public trust and democratic resilience.

Much of the discussion revolved around the need to move beyond project cycles and campaign-style messaging. Participants agreed that countering disinformation requires continuity and depth, initiatives that engage people directly, build media literacy, and promote meaningful dialogue rather than one-off content pushes.

There was broad consensus that offline communication remains one of the most effective ways to reach communities. Face-to-face discussions, local storytelling, and small-scale social activities help rebuild the trust that online spaces often erode. Several participants shared examples of how panel discussions, community meetings, and youth initiatives have strengthened their audiences’ confidence in credible information sources.

Another shared view was that the sector needs to invest more in developing local narratives,  communication that reflects people’s real concerns, emotions, and everyday experiences. Participants noted that citizens respond more positively to messages about shared values, solidarity, and participation than to abstract slogans or institutional campaigns.

To sustain these efforts, organizations are looking to diversify their funding, build stronger community support, and expand their skills in strategic communication, brand development, and audience research. These were seen as essential to ensuring that media and civic organizations remain independent, trusted, and adaptable in the long term.

Civil society’s role in strengthening democratic resilience

Participants reflected that, in the post-election period, civil society’s role is evolving. The focus should now shift from “firefighting” – debunking falsehoods as they appear – to preventive communication and long-term trust-building. This involves equipping citizens to recognize manipulation, supporting educators and local media, and creating positive narratives that promote inclusion and confidence in democratic processes.

A key takeaway was the importance of human connection. Whether through local journalists, community leaders, or young content creators, authentic voices remain the most powerful antidote to disinformation. Empowering these actors and amplifying their reach was seen as one of the most effective ways to sustain public trust.

Participants also discussed how collaboration between civil society, media, and state institutions should evolve. The group emphasized that each actor has a distinct but complementary role, and that regular dialogue between them is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability.

Participants left the discussion with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. The consensus was clear: Moldova’s resilience depends on steady, consistent work, on building relationships, trust, and understanding that outlast any election cycle.