Romania, included in the UNESCO report on press freedom and the impact of artificial intelligence

UNESCO has launched the global report 'World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development 2022-2025', which highlights a significant deterioration in freedom of expression and journalism conditions worldwide. The expertise of the Center for the Promotion of Participation and Democracy (CPD) of SNSPA has been included in the report, supported by the UNESCO Chair for Policies in Science and Innovation. The report shows a decline in the global index of freedom of expression, correlated with the weakening of democratic institutions and the increase of disinformation, exacerbated by new technologies, including artificial intelligence.

The contribution of SNSPA includes an international study on the impact of these technologies on democracy and journalism, with data from Romania, the USA, South Africa, and Mexico. The report indicates an increase in self-censorship and attacks on journalists, with 186 cases of killings during the period 2022-2025. There is also an observed amplification of online harassment, especially against women journalists. However, the report also mentions positive developments, such as expanded access to social media and the growth of collaborative investigative journalism. UNESCO calls on member states to prioritize the protection of independent journalism and to invest in media education. SNSPA reaffirms its commitment to promoting democratic values and quality journalism.