Moldova 3: New law to create Russian-language TV channel
The proposed law to establish a public Russian-language television channel, "Moldova 3," includes amendments to three articles of the Audiovisual Media Services Code (AMSC), according to the Independent Journalism Center (IJC).
The main changes aim to remove certain linguistic and cultural obligations for the national public provider, "Teleradio-Moldova" (TRM), and introduce new rules for media service distributors.
Exceptions to TRM's linguistic obligations
Under current legislation, audiovisual media service providers must broadcast at least 80% of local programs in Romanian. The only existing exception applies to television and radio stations in administrative-territorial units where an ethnic minority is the majority, such as in the autonomous territorial unit of Gagauzia, where the percentage of programs in Romanian can be reduced to 25%.
The proposed law introduces a new exception to this rule, specifically targeting "Teleradio-Moldova." The amendments specify that the institution will no longer be required to meet this percentage for a new audiovisual media service dedicated to national minority languages. Therefore, "Teleradio-Moldova" could broadcast content without the same linguistic restrictions imposed on other providers.
Changes to Romanian language program translation
Current legislation requires all media providers to translate programs broadcast in other languages into Romanian, either by dubbing, voice-over, or subtitles. Movies may only be shown with Romanian subtitles or dubbing, maintaining the original soundtrack or licensed version, while children's productions must be fully dubbed or voiced over.
Under the new amendments, TRM's audiovisual media service for national minorities would be exempt from this requirement. This would allow broadcasting content in various minority languages without the need for Romanian translation.
Regulation of TRM's position in cable TV grids
Another important aspect of the proposed law is the regulation of the placement of TRM's media services in cable TV grids. Audiovisual media distributors will be required to place TRM's generalist television channel at the top of the automatic channel preselection list.
"Teleradio-Moldova" may launch a new television channel entirely in Russian. The legislative initiative was introduced by PAS MPs Eugeniu Sinchevici and Natalia Davidovici, who argue that the new channel would offer an alternative source of information for Russian speakers in Moldova and help combat disinformation. The proposal has sparked a wave of reactions and debates in the public sphere.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
