25 February 2016

In Romania, the concept of freedom of press is still an Apple of Discord, used to manipulate public opinion: in 2014, Dan Voiculescu, the owner of the media group called Intact Group, was convicted to jail, for money laundering. The sentence also included seizure of all the Group television headquarters. The seizure sentence was implemented in 2016, but the journalists of the Intact Group have launched a vehement attack against Authorities, claiming that the freedom of press is violated. The Romanian Prime Minister took a stand, saying that the evacuation is legally motivated, and this has nothing to do with the broadcast license. Still, the public opinion was divided, not truly understanding the concept of press freedom. The manipulation are underway, meaning that a public debate about press freedom and freedom of speech is vital for a democratic society. 

Dilema Veche: read the full article in Romenian