Information manipulation endangers Moldova’s European path, with Russia and its influence networks constantly adapting their strategies, aiming to block integration into the EU. This finding is contained in the report of the Center for Strategic Communication and Counteracting Disinformation (CCSCD) on information manipulation and foreign interference in Moldova, reports IPN.
According to CCSCD, manipulation actions target perceptions about the future of the country. They attack citizens’ confidence in the European direction and the credibility of the state in front of external partners. These messages are coordinated and persistent, quickly adapting to the internal political and social context, with the aim of weakening public support for European integration.
The report outlines specific cases of informational manipulation and disinformation techniques, exploitation of emotions, and use of sensitive topics, through artificially amplified content on online platforms.
The analysis describes society as being strongly polarized. The level of trust in state institutions remains low. Social networks are the main source of information for many citizens, which increases vulnerability to manipulation, warns CCSCD.
Furthermore, according to the institution, informational attacks aim to degrade the ability to distinguish truth from falsehood. This situation affects informed decision-making and weakens democratic resilience.
Strategic communication and social cohesion are essential, notes CCSCD. It recommends a coordinated response at the level of the entire society, as well as joint actions between institutions, the press, and civil society.
