Moldova's PM-designate says information space needs to be sanitized, freedom of expression cannot be shield for hate, disinformation

The fight against disinformation and manipulation is a strategic priority for the future government. Prime Minister-designate Alexandru Munteanu has made statements to this effect in the parliament’s plenum, emphasizing the need to ‘’sanitize the information space,’’, in order to protect public interest and national security.

“The right to free expression is fundamental - in the United States, it is the first amendment. Everyone has the right to say what he/she thinks. Nevertheless, when this message becomes misogynistic, hostile, chauvinistic, hostile to the state and the country's interest, then the authorities must intervene. We need to sanitize the information space,” said Alexandru Munteanu.

He noted that the government he will lead would act for a balance between press freedom and public responsibility, without political interference, but with determination against coordinated manipulation and hate campaigns.

Munteanu reiterated that his governing programme was oriented towards transparency, efficiency and real dialogue with society. He emphasized that the new cabinet would be open to proposals and criticisms, but will reject populism and discourse based on hate or manipulation.

“My professional and life experience has taught me that nice words are good for uniting people, but become harmful when they try to cover up shortcomings. I will be a prime minister who listens, respects and works, not a populist one. I will tell the truth even when the solutions require a common effort on behalf of the entire country,” the designated PM said.

At the same time, Munteanu called for civic responsibility and active involvement on behalf of all citizens.

“Criticism is useful, but active participation is irreplaceable. Differences of opinion are natural in a democracy; the important thing is that they do not deviate from the direction set by the citizens — the European future, a better life and the safety of every family,” remarked the official.

In his speech, Alexandru Munteanu warned that disinformation was one of the most serious modern threats, capable of undermining social cohesion, trust in institutions, and the European path of Moldova.

“Information security is part of national security. We will fight against propaganda, but we will not limit anyone's freedom to think or to ask. We will build a culture of dialogue based on facts, not on fear,” declared the designated prime minister.

Through these messages, Alexandru Munteanu outlined his vision of a transparent, rational and open government, which will protect freedom of expression, but also act against disinformation and hate speech, in order to defend democracy and the European direction of Moldova.

Also today, in parliament, the designated prime minister stressed that the level of press freedom in Moldova was high, a fact that must be maintained and strengthened through transparency policies and partnership between institutions, journalists and civil society.