The Association of Electronic Press (APEL) has released the results of a national assessment on external audiovisual pluralism in the Republic of Moldova. Conducted using a methodology approved by the Audiovisual Council (CA) in 2024 and adapted from the European Media Pluralism Monitor (MPM), the study offers an in-depth evaluation of key risks and vulnerabilities affecting media pluralism in the country.
The assessment focused on four core dimensions:
- Fundamental Protection (score: 1.84 – low risk):
Moldova’s legal framework ensures freedom of expression, access to public information, and protection of journalistic sources. However, the country lacks a coordinated media literacy policy, and current anti-disinformation measures remain limited, particularly regarding online content.
- Market Plurality (score: 2.23 – medium risk):
While transparency of media ownership and concentration limits are regulated by law, enforcement mechanisms are weak. Vertical integration and cross-media ownership remain largely unaddressed, especially in the online environment. Despite this, audiovisual revenues increased in 2024, and most providers have adapted to digital platforms.
- Political Independence (score: 1.81 – low risk):
Legislation effectively separates media ownership from political influence, and the Audiovisual Council has taken active steps to dismantle politically affiliated media conglomerates. Political advertising is regulated, and fair access to airtime during elections is ensured.
- Social Inclusiveness (score: 2.0 – medium risk):
The law guarantees access to audiovisual media for minorities and persons with disabilities. Local and regional media outlets have equal access to licenses and broadcasting opportunities. Some progress has been made in promoting gender representation in audiovisual content.
Across all four thematic areas and based on 16 indicators and 15 sub-indicators, the study produced an overall average score of 1.98, pointing to a generally low level of risk to external audiovisual pluralism in Moldova in 2024. While the legal and policy frameworks are broadly adequate, their enforcement and implementation remain inconsistent and require further improvement.
The study was commissioned by the Audiovisual Council of the Republic of Moldova within the framework of the project “Strategic development & strengthening of legal and regulatory framework for independent media in Moldova”, implemented by APEL with the financial support of International Media Support (IMS).
📄 Read the full report (available in Romanian only):
External Audiovisual Pluralism in Moldova
