CRDC – Active Partner in the Discussion Platform on Combating Disinformation

In a world where disinformation is becoming an increasingly serious threat, the team at the Regional Center for Community Development (CRDC) continues to strengthen its expertise and active involvement in initiatives aimed at countering this phenomenon. We are proud to be part of the Discussion Platform on Combating Disinformation in National, Regional, and International Contexts, a vital initiative launched by IDIS “Viitorul” and financially supported by the Embassy of Finland in Bucharest.

CRDC’s Active Participation in the Platform

During the second session of the Discussion Platform, CRDC was represented by its administrator, Irina Bejan, who presented a detailed case study on how public figures manipulate public opinion, with a focus on the narrative of “gas at 10 lei.”

The analysis highlighted how, ahead of the 2023 local elections, populist statements promoted by politicians such as Ilan Șor and Evghenia Guțul exploited citizens’ concerns over rising energy prices. These narratives were used to stir emotional reactions among voters, creating an atmosphere of confusion and uncertainty. Irina Bejan’s study demonstrates that such declarations are political smokescreens aimed at destabilizing public opinion and dividing society.

CRDC’s Contribution to the Platform

Launched in October 2023, the Platform brings together civil society representatives, journalists, professors, and students to develop critical thinking and media literacy skills. CRDC has actively contributed by:

• Participating in training sessions focused on critical thinking, media literacy, and combating disinformation.
• Producing the analytical article “How Certain Public Figures Manipulate National Security Topics to Destabilize Public Opinion Before Elections. Case Study: Gas at 10 Lei”, authored by Irina Bejan.

Why This Effort Matters

Disinformation campaigns significantly impact society by influencing public decisions, undermining trust in institutions, and amplifying social divisions. Through our participation in this platform, we help build a healthy and transparent media space where citizens have access to accurate and objective information.

An Important Step in Advancing Media Literacy

CRDC’s involvement in the Discussion Platform marks a key milestone in our efforts to promote critical thinking in the southern region of Moldova. Recently, our team has undergone intensive training and received recognition for its contributions to enhancing media literacy in local communities.

The Project “Supporting Critical Thinking and Resilience to Disinformation in the Republic of Moldova”

The Platform’s activities are implemented within the project “Supporting Critical Thinking and Resilience to Disinformation in the Republic of Moldova,” led by IDIS “Viitorul” with financial support from the Embassy of Finland in Bucharest. The project aims to create a participatory and inclusive dialogue space, providing valuable tools for identifying and countering disinformation.

CRDC reaffirms its commitment to actively combat disinformation and promote media literacy. We are honored to be part of this Platform and to contribute meaningfully to building a fair and transparent information space. Through our continued efforts, we aim to offer our communities a safer, better-informed, and more resilient future.