Non-governmental media organizations strongly condemn smear campaigns against journalists and media institutions working in the public interest

Non-governmental media organizations express their concern and strongly condemn the intensification of smear campaigns and harassment against media institutions and journalists in the Republic of Moldova. The scale of harassment of the independent press in the online environment can no longer be ignored.

A recent example that illustrates this harmful phenomenon is the case of TV8 journalist Mariana Rață, who has become the target of orchestrated attacks aimed at intimidating and discrediting her image.

We would like to remind you that Moldovan law guarantees freedom of expression and protects the honor, dignity, and safety of journalists. Intimidation, threats, defamation, and the dissemination of false information about journalists are serious offenses that must be punished firmly and promptly by the authorities. The lack of effective and rapid countermeasures creates a climate of impunity and encourages the perpetuation of these practices, which are destructive to a democratic society.

The IJC urges all journalists and media outlets targeted by such hostile campaigns to use all available legal means to obtain recognition and redress for the damage suffered. We encourage the press that has been harmed to take legal action against the perpetrators of the attacks in order to restore their rights through the publication of retractions and public apologies.

We call on law enforcement agencies to take immediate action to hold accountable the authors of slander and insults against Mariana Rață, as well as other journalists targeted by online smear campaigns.

We also remind you that individuals who have complaints or concerns about the work of an editorial office or a journalist can use the existing self-regulation mechanisms in the media by filing a complaint with the Press Council.

Independent Journalism Center

Center for Investigative Journalism

Media-Guard Association

Access-Info Center

RISE Moldova

Press Freedom Committee

Association of Independent Press

Association of Electronic Press