In 2024, the media situation in the Republic of Moldova was marked by serious problems, according to the Index on the Situation of the Media in Moldova (ISPM), released by the Independent Journalism Center. The scores of the 2024 ISPM report dropped slightly, contrary to the gradual upward trend registered between 2021-2023, IPN reports.
The state of the domestic press in 2024 was rated by 14 assessors with 31.6 points, 1.07 points lower than the previous year. It is a score that is more than half of the required 60 points to attest that media legislation is sufficient and effective, that the press operates in favorable economic conditions or that journalists carry out their work in full security.
The report shows that pre-existing media-relevant legislation that emerged in 2024, such as the Law on the Media Subsidy Fund, is not sufficient to ensure a balanced and transparent media system. The main legislative gaps identified by the evaluators are related to the lack of regulation of the digital media and the online domain in general. Poor enforcement of legislation remains a major problem, making the provision of access to information of public interest most vulnerable.
At the same time, the evaluators highlighted the increase in public attacks and slanderous messages launched during the 2024 election campaigns to undermine the reputation of media professionals. Despite pressure, independent media outlets continued to expose foreign interference and electoral corruption.
The study also reveals how the tense political, social and economic contexts throughout 2024 affected the work of the media.
In order to improve the situation, it recommends the adoption of specific rules for online media and digital platforms, aligned with EU regulations. There is also a need to create clear mechanisms to prevent and sanction abuses committed by local authorities against media institutions, including a mechanism for reporting and rapid intervention in cases of intimidation or censorship, and public policies to facilitate citizens' access to subscriptions to independent media.
Press Situation in Moldova Index for the ninth consecutive year.
