(by Ana Revenco, former Minister of the Interior in Moldova, head of the Center for Strategic Communication and Countering Disinformation)
On October 20, Moldovans will be asked to vote in a referendum on future membership of the European Union. A yes vote will change Moldova’s constitution, but this referendum is about something much deeper. It is a moment when the Moldovan people will decide whether they see their country as part of the European family. The legitimacy of Moldova’s European path will rest on this decision, making this vote a crucial point in the nation’s history.
This referendum is not taking place in an isolated context; indeed, the moment in which it happens makes it particularly relevant. Across Europe, confidence in the European project is wavering. The recent regional elections in Germany are an example of how extremist voices have gained ground in many countries, raising questions about the future of European unity. At the same time, Moldova remains a battleground for the Russian manipulation machine, with efforts aimed at undermining democratic values and weakening Moldova’s ties with Europe.
In such a tense context, a yes vote in this referendum would send a powerful message: a signal that the values of democracy, freedom and unity are still alive. It would demonstrate that, despite external pressures, Moldova remains steadfast in its commitment to Europe.
One of the main challenges Moldova faces ahead of election day is the threat of Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI), of which disinformation is only part of a broader strategy used by Russia to destabilize Moldova’s European ambitions. This strategy goes beyond fake news and includes a series of tactics aimed at eroding confidence in Moldova’s European future—sowing doubt, presenting half-truths and manipulating the facts.
This foreign interference is not just about influencing the referendum itself. The objective is to weaken the social cohesion necessary to face the complex process of European integration. Moldova’s path to Europe will not end with this vote—European integration requires years of hard work, difficult decisions and significant changes. The country will need a strong social unity to stay the course. This is why foreign interference is so dangerous—it undermines the very foundations on which Moldova’s future rests.
The fight against FIMI is part of a larger and ongoing battle to protect democracy. In an age of instant communication and digital warfare, threats to democracy have evolved. It’s no longer just blatant propaganda; these are subtle manipulations aimed at weakening the bonds that hold societies together. This makes defending democracy a never-ending challenge, requiring constant adaptation.
One of the key innovations in our fight against FIMI has been the strengthening of communication and cooperation between the state, independent media and civil society. We call this the “whole of society” approach. The state alone cannot effectively counter subtle manipulation and disinformation; it needs help from other credible voices. The media and civil society play crucial roles in shaping public opinion and building trust. Without their involvement, our efforts would be limited.
This collaboration is essential because trust in government has declined over time. The state may provide the facts, but it is the media and civil society that make those facts resonate with the public. It’s about creating a united front to counter the divisive forces of misinformation.
Even with the best communications strategy, building trust in Moldova’s democratic institutions will be a long and difficult journey. The answers are not new: they are the same principles that have always supported democracy: transparency, honesty and a strong justice system.
The referendum in Moldova is more than just a vote on European integration. It is a test of the country’s resilience and unity in the face of external pressures. It is an opportunity for the Moldovan people to demonstrate to the world that they are committed to the values of democracy, freedom and European unity. The road ahead will be difficult, but Moldova can overcome the challenges and secure its place in Europe.
