The Independent Journalism Center (IJC), together with eight other non-governmental media organizations, has published the Memorandum on Press Freedom in the Republic of Moldova, a synthesis of the main developments and setbacks in the media sector during the period 3 May 2025 – 3 May 2026. Released in the context of World Press Freedom Day, the document shows that the media in the Republic of Moldova continue to operate in an environment marked by serious challenges, despite certain legislative developments and institutional measures adopted over the past year.
The Memorandum notes a deterioration in working conditions and in the safety of journalists, particularly amid online harassment and intimidation linked to the coverage of politically sensitive topics. The document also draws attention to the pressure exerted on independent media in the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, as well as to the heightened vulnerabilities faced by journalists working in the Transnistrian region.
The document highlights several legislative advances, including amendments to the Audiovisual Media Services Code and initiatives aimed at protecting journalists. However, key problems remain unresolved, including the lack of a coherent framework for print and online media, insufficient transparency of media ownership, the absence of an effective anti-SLAPP mechanism, and persistent difficulties in accessing information of public interest.
The authors of the Memorandum also underline the economic fragility of independent media, caused by the underdeveloped advertising market, dependence on grants, and the concentration of online advertising revenues in the hands of major technology platforms.
Among other recommendations, the signatory organizations call on the authorities to strengthen the legal and institutional protection of journalists, adopt a new media law in line with international standards, and improve access to information of public interest.
The Memorandum is signed by the Independent Journalism Center, RISE Moldova, the Access-Info Center, the Association of Environmental Journalists and Ecological Tourism, the Electronic Press Association, the Association of Independent Press, the Press Freedom Committee, the Center for Investigative Journalism, and the Media Guard Association.
