Abstract

The electoral campaign for 2016 presidential elections was characterized by the use of political manipulation through methods and techniques oriented towards influencing the political mentality and behaviour of the electorate. The article provides an analysis of the main propaganda and disinformation tools and instruments applied by Moldovan media outlets to change the political perceptions, increase the level of trust and accumulate electoral capital in fa-vor of specific political actors. Relevant statistical data are brought to explain why mass media, in particular TV and online, had a key role during the electoral campaign and why political manipulation targeted the category of undecided electorate. The recommendations provided at the end of the article are focused on raising awareness about propaganda and disinformation methods, increasing media literacy among population and strengthening the bodies responsible for the elaboration and implementation of public policies, as well as monitoring of the compliance with current legislation.

Authors and Affiliations