The lack of confidence between communicators and the mass media leads to defective communication between the state and society. The journalists are not satisfied that the responses to their requests for information come with unjustified delay. On the other hand, the communicators’ argument is that there are not enough communicators and the workload is heavy, while the processing time of a request and the quality of answers depends on the openness of institution heads. Such opinions were stated in a workshop entitled “Challenges and solutions in communication between institutions of public administration and the mass media. Security of information and role of non-traditional communicators in the era of new technology” that was held on October 2, IPN reports.
Dumitru Tira, manager of the Association for Development and Cooperation, said there is now no confidence between communicators and the mass media. There are several types of communication, including direct one between the communicator and the journalist, which is based on personal relations, communication as official response to the request, etc. “It is yet sure that in the context of the reforms announced at the level of the central public administration, when the communicator is changed, the type of communication also changes. It is not normal to call the press service of a state institution for several days in a row and to have the phone not answered,” he stated.
Joseph Watson, professor of public affairs communications at the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication of the University of Georgia, said the communicators should organize informal events to establish better relations with journalists, to build confidence and keep good relations with the mass media. At the same time, to be more efficient, the communicators should prioritize their area of activity and make a communication plan.
According to the expert, the unwillingness to communicate worsens the relationship between the two subjects, while efficient communication leads to enhanced transparency. He encouraged communicators to do their job and find time to answer all the questions of journalists. Joseph Watson noted the state institutions should have efficient communication with the public and the mass media so as to combat and prevent corruption.
U.S. Ambassador to Moldova James Pettit said there are numerous challenges in the mass media sector in Moldova, such as the exaggerated number of Russian TV channels that are a source of propaganda and the monopolization of the media.
Former representative of the U.S. to the OSCE Powell Moore noted the freedom of communication should be cultivated and protected from the influence of political factors. “The words are very important. They are a very powerful instrument. Regrettably, I think the Republic of Moldova experiences corruption and this has an effect on the freedom of the media, migration and the Transnistrian conflict,” stated Powell Moore
The workshop will continue on October 3 with another four panel discussions between experts, journalists and communicators. The event is organized by the Association for Development and Cooperation and the Cox International Center, the Center for International Mass Communication Training and Research and the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication of the University of Georgia.
