Moldova ranks in top 40 globally for press freedom; Culture minister says it is international recognition of country's progress

Moldova this year has ranked 35th in a top 40 globally for press freedom, out of 180 countries, according to the ranking by Reporters without Borders (RSF). Minister of Culture Sergiu Prodan unveiled data to this effect, in the context of marking the World Press Freedom Day.

According to the official, the World Press Freedom Day is an occasion to reflect on the essential role played by the press in a democratic society.

“A free, professional and responsible press is not only a guarantee of citizens' right to be accurately informed, but also a pillar of the rule of law. This year, Moldova ranks in the top 40 globally for press freedom, holding the 35th position out of 180 countries, according to the ranking by Reporters without Borders. This is an international recognition of the progress made, as well as a signal that we must continue to strengthen a pluralistic and fair media ecosystem,” said Sergiu Prodan.

The minister emphasized that, although there was a decrease in political and oligarchic influence over the press, economic pressures, editorial pressures and attempts at manipulation stayed real challenges for independent newsrooms.

“The Ministry of Culture reaffirms its firm commitment to supporting press freedom and public policies dedicated to mass media. In 2024, we took concrete steps to this end: we strengthened the Mass Media Policy Directorate, which coordinates efforts in the field; we created and operationalized the Media Sector Subsidization Fund by adopting Law No. 50/2024 and its corresponding regulatory framework; we tripled the budget of this fund, from 5 to 15 million lei, and launched the first subsidy contests for projects in cultural journalism, media education and support for journalistic investigations,” Sergiu Prodan noted.

Also, to support the print media, a funding mechanism for the distribution of periodicals was established, through which expenses amounting to over 10 million lei were compensated, benefiting 18 editorial offices and information consumers.

“The press needs more than symbolic recognition. It needs support and decent conditions, in order to fulfill its mission with professionalism, ethics and impartiality. In a fragile climate where the truth can be easily distorted, responsible journalism becomes an act of democratic resistance. I encourage all journalists and media workers to perform their duties with integrity, respect for facts and dedication to the public interest. The Ministry of Culture will continue to be an active partner of the free and independent press in Moldova,” added Sergiu Prodan.

The United Nations General Assembly declared May 3 as the World Press Freedom Day, in order to raise the awareness of the importance of press freedom and remind governments of their obligation to respect and support the right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.