The conclusions are contained in the study “Media Literacy Assessment” conducted by the Council of Europe and the Moldovan Television and Radio Council. They are based on the answers received by the Magenta sociological company between May 23 and June 23 from 1,868 respondents, of whom 1,542 represented the main sample and 326 were parents of children from 7 to 18 years old. The research was conducted within the framework of the project “Promoting Media Freedom in the Republic of Moldova” (2025-2028).
At the same time, 70% of respondents stated that social networks were also the main source of misinformation.
Parents of children between 7 and 18 years old use social networks even more often: 80% of them turn to them daily for news. Responses also show that almost all citizens (96%) believe it is important to be able to distinguish fake news from news. Most (59%) consider themselves able to recognize fake news, but believe it is difficult for the rest of the population to do so (70%). More than half of the population (56%) consider themselves well-informed, and 65% are interested in national news. The media are perceived as interesting (61%) but not politically independent (61%). The level of trust in the media is low: 55% said they do not trust any source completely. However, according to the survey participants, investigative journalists are the most trusted.
The need for media education as an optional course in schools is supported by 72% of respondents.
The survey recommendations focus on four main areas: diversifying and improving media content, building trust through strategic communication and transparency with media owners, developing media skills through education in schools and adult programs, and supporting local journalism and investigative journalism that meets the needs of the community.
