Media NGOs condemn abuses against journalists at the PDM rally

Peaceful Assembly

During November and December 2018, several demonstrations took place in the Republic of Moldova. Most of them were organised by political parties. On 21st October 2018, one demonstration took place, organised by the Democratic Party of Moldova (PDM) where PDM leaders highlighted the achievements of the government in the last four years. In particular, PDM politicians noted efforts to improve living standards and presented future policy ideas to modernise the country. The event took place without incident. 

On 18th November 2018, thousands of people took to the streets in support of the Socialist Party, ahead of the next parliamentary elections that will take place in February 2019. Chanting "our time is coming", party supporters gathered in the main square of the capital, Chisinau. 

On 3rd December 2018, supporters of Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) and the Dignity and Truth Platform (PPDA) protested in front of the National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE) building against rising energy prices. Protesters from the two political parties demanded a 15 percent reduction in the tariffs on heating.

Expression

While protests have taken place without incident, some journalists have faced restrictions when covering mobilisations. Eight media organisations issued a joint statement condemning the fact that several media outlets were unable to cover the Democratic Party (PDM) rally held on 21st October 2018. For example, when a journalist from media outlet Agora approached two party members to ask questions, it was reported that a member of their security prevented him from asking questions by pulling him away. In addition, it was reported that Viorica Tataru from Ziarul de Garda and Stefan Grigorita from Europa Libera Radio were attacked by police officers who banned them from filming the rally.