The Council of Europe issues a new alert on press freedom in the Republic of Moldova after journalist Mariana Rață received death threats

The Council of Europe, through its Platform for the Protection of Journalism and Safety of Journalists, issued an alert regarding Moldova following death threats against TV8 journalist Mariana Rață after an interview with politician Renato Usatîi. The Center for Independent Journalism (IJC), along with seven other media organizations, condemned the case.

The case mentioned in the alert took place on October 30, 2025, when Mariana Rață became the target of insults, offensive labels, and death threats (“people will stick a knife in your throat”) from a Facebook user identified as Boris Cerlat, who on his profile page presents himself as a supporter of the political party ” Partidul Nostru” (Our Party). The threats and insults were sent by the harasser in several voice messages, expressing his disagreement with the questions asked to the leader of Partidul Nostru, Renato Usatîi, during the TV show “Cutia Neagră cu Mariana Rață” (The Black Box with Mariana Rață).

“The Moldovan authorities should quickly and effectively investigate the death threats against Mariana Rață, ensure her safety, and hold the person responsible accountable. They should also publicly condemn any form of intimidation or harassment against journalists and take proactive measures to prevent online hate speech and threats against the media,” the Council of Europe alert states.

At the same time, the IJC statement points out that such actions put enormous pressure on journalists and create a climate of hostility, seriously affecting the public’s right to accurate and objective information. “We remind you that the legislation of the Republic of Moldova guarantees freedom of expression and protects the honor, dignity, and safety of journalists. Intimidation, threats, defamation, and the dissemination of false information about journalists constitute serious offenses that must be punished firmly and promptly by the authorities. At the same time, we emphasize that threats of murder or serious bodily harm or injury to health, including those made through a information system, constitute criminal offences under criminal law. The lack of effective and rapid countermeasures creates a climate of impunity and encourages the perpetuation of these practices, which are destructive to a democratic society,” the appeal signed by the organizations states.