IJC Program Strengthens Legal Support for the Press: Another Group of Lawyers Trained in Media Law

The Independent Journalism Center (IJC) continues its efforts to build legal capacity for the effective protection of journalists and media institutions in the Republic of Moldova. On 15 – 16 April 2025, 22 lawyers and legal trainees took part in two capacity building workshops focused on access to information and freedom of expression. The sessions were organized by IJC in partnership with the Center for Lawyer Training in Chișinău.

These trainings are part of IJC’s broader initiative to strengthen legal support for the press, launched in response to the growing number of challenges journalists in Moldova are facing — from groundless defamation lawsuits to unjustified refusals to provide access to public information.

The 16 April session was led by Victor Kalughin, senior consultant at the Ministry of Justice and co-author of the new Law on Access to Public Interest Information. He provided participants with practical insights into the correct application of the law and discussed effective legal tools and strategies to defend the media’s right to access information.

During the 15 April capacity building workshop, participants explored legislation and case law related to balancing freedom of expression with the protection of honor, dignity, and professional reputation. Cristina Durnea, a lawyer and program manager at IJC, guided the session, explaining the legal nuances involved in defending journalists in defamation cases and emphasizing the specific legal safeguards granted to the media.

“IJC offers legal assistance and consultations to journalists and independent newsrooms because they are often targeted by defamation suits or face barriers when trying to access information of public interest. Moldova has many lawyers, but unfortunately, very few specialize in media law. That’s why these training sessions are so important. We hope the participants will continue working with IJC to protect the legitimate rights and interests of the press,” said Cristina Durnea.

Previously, in October and November 2024, more than 30 legal professionals took part in similar capacity building workshops focused on media law and regulation.

The capacity building workshops of Media Lawyer Network was organized within the „READ – Responding, Expanding and Acting on Disinformation” project jointly implemented by International Media Support (IMS) and the Independent Journalism Center (IJC), with the financial support of the European Union.