Defending Media Freedom: A Bold Stand for Moldova

Statement by the Party of the European Left 

The Party of the European Left expresses deep concern over the recent closure of new television channels and other media outlets in the Republic of Moldova. We strongly condemn these actions, which represent a tightening of censorship, and affront to democratic principlesi. 

our position

We are profoundly concerned by the anti-democratic actions of government institutions and strongly condemn the political attack on the independent TV channel TVC 21. The Party of the European Left supports the civil protest in Moldova and stands in solidarity with the independent television channel. We call for the immediate reversal of the decisions that suspend or hinder the operations on media organizations without transparent and justified legal processes.  

We urge the leadership of the European Union to advocate for freedom of expressions and to firmly denounce the arbitrary actions taken by Moldovan authorities against independent media.  

call to action:

  • We call on all democratic organizations, human rights defenders, and European institutions to: 
  • Raise their voices against the growing political repression in Moldova. 
  • Issue formal protests to Moldovan authorities regarding the suppression of media freedom.​ 
  • Amplify the voices of affected journalists and media outlets.​ 
  • Support initiatives that protect press freedom and bolster civil society in Moldova. 

Together, let us demonstrate unwavering support for those defending democratic values, social equality, and the preservation of peace throughout all regions of Europe. 

i BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
In December 2022, Moldova’s Commission for Exceptional Situations suspended the broadcast licenses of six television channels—Primul, RTR Moldova, Accent TV, NTV Moldova, TV6, and Orhei TV—citing concerns over misinformation and inaccurate coverage of Russia’s war in Ukraine. ​Media Azi+2Al Jazeera+2Deutsche Welle+2 
Subsequently, in March 2024, the Council for the Promotion of National-Importance Investment Projects suspended the operations of Media Content Distribution, the owner of Canal 5 television channel and Maestro FM radio, alleging involvement in activities affecting state security. ​Infotag+1apel.md+1 
Furthermore, in December 2024, the Audiovisual Council sanctioned Premiera TV and Next TV for failing to broadcast the required amount of local programming, imposing fines totaling 130,000 lei. ​Moldpres Agenția Infromațioală de Stat 
Civil Society’s Response: 
These measures have elicited significant criticism from media organizations and civil society groups in Moldova. In December 2023, several NGOs expressed concern over the lack of transparency in the process of suspending TV station licenses without court decisions, highlighting potential threats to freedom of expression. ​Moldpres Agenția Infromațioală de Stat+2apel.md+2Media Azi+2 
Similarly, in October 2023, media NGOs and the People’s Advocate questioned the justification for the suspension of six television stations, emphasizing the need for compelling arguments to substantiate such restrictive measures. ​Media Azi 

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