We condemn the reprehensible missteps of some electoral competitors in their interaction with the media and ask the candidates in the presidential election to adopt a proper conduct in relation to journalists

Non-governmental media organizations condemn the disqualifying behavior of some electoral competitors, manifested in offensive labeling of journalists, expression of insults, and launching of campaigns to discredit some media outlets.

We note with regret the perpetuation of practices denigrating and intimidating media representatives, a phenomenon that increased during the electoral campaign for the presidential election and the republican constitutional referendum of October 20.

We remind all electoral competitors about the need to observe, in their interaction with the media, not only the Electoral Code, the Law on freedom of expression, and the Regulation on the media coverage of elections, but also the generally acceptable rules of conduct in a democratic society.

Please note that the state guarantees the protection of the honor, dignity, and professional reputation of journalists and sanctions any form of intimidation of journalists. We call on all electoral competitors to refrain from spreading disinformation, hate speech, and sexist expressions, as well as to adopt decent language and behavior in relation to representatives of the media.

We encourage reporters and media outlets harmed by the disqualifying behavior of electoral competitors to use the means provided by law to counteract, punish, and prevent such incidents.

We remind that, in case of disagreement with a journalist’s working methods or with the way media service providers ensure the rights of electoral competitors, they may file complaints against the actions or inactions of the media in court, at the Broadcasting Council or, as the case may be, at the Press Council of the Republic of Moldova.

Independent Journalism Center

Association of Environmental and Ecological Tourism Journalists

Association of Electronic Press 

Association of Independent Press 

“Access-Info” Center

Media-Guard Association

Press Freedom Committee 

RISE MOLDOVA