Propaganda narratives and disinformation: the information resilience of the Republic of Moldova

This article explores the risks posed by propaganda and disinformation in the context of the Presidential elections and the Constitutional referendum in the Republic of Moldova, scheduled for October 20, 2024. As elements of hybrid warfare, disinformation and foreign propaganda not only sway public opinion, but also have the potential to destabilize the democratic process, exacerbate social polarization, and erode trust in state institutions. The ability of citizens and institutions to detect and combat these tactics is crucial for maintaining a functioning democracy. Strategic communication and the enhancement of informational resilience are vital in mitigating the adverse effects of propaganda and disinformation. The article aims to elucidate the sources and propagandist narratives, as well as the current institutions and normative frameworks in Moldova that are tasked with combating disinformation.