Discussions about media consumption and informational manipulation, at the European University of Moldova

More than 50 students of the European University in Moldova, of the journalism, international relations, law and psychology faculties participated in a new lesson of media literacy, organized by IJC on the November 7, 2014. The activity, moderated by the journalist Vasile Botnaru, head of Radio Free Europe in Chisinau approached aspects of the correct informing from media sources and avoiding manipulation.

In his speech, V. Botnaru emphasized the role of the media consumer to filter and check the received information. The journalist advised the students to read the news based on reason, not on emotions.

”Don’t follow your first emotional reactions and instant anger, when you read news. Be rational. Many times, those who try to manipulate though media, count on the public’s instant reactions. You have to believe only the logical and rational arguments and to cultivate the inner necessity to filter the information, especially now, ahead of parliamentary elections, when the politicians’ intention of manipulation is inevitable. Do not forget that the stakes of this manipulation are high. Basically, there is a fight given for your future!”, explained to the students Vasile Botnaru.

The moderator of the activity also mentioned that the news needs to be balanced, and in the case of conflict information, opinions of experts must be presented, in order to increase the level of objectivity. V. Botnaru talked about the tendency of some media institutions to produce news and reportages intentionally directed with notes of sensationalism, that many times  are believed by the public, causing therefore real social conflicts.

Students remarked the actuality of the topic and the importance of organizing such events more often.

“At this lesson I learned information that will help us, young people, to make correct choices, especially regarding the way we inform ourselves and how to avoid manipulation”, told us student Alina Clipa.

Irina Gonciar highlighted: “I learned that I shouldn’t let myself deceived by promises, advertising and lies told by politicians. We must judge based on facts, not words.”

“Unfortunately, young people are the most easily influenced, manipulated and flattered, that is why, this kind of activities will find their utility and effect in the decisions taken by the youth”.

The media literacy lesson at the European University of Moldova took place as part of the project “Promoting media literacy among Moldovan citizens”, implemented by the IJC between March 2014 and April 2015 with the financial support of the US Embassy in Moldova.