President Maia Sandu participated in the international conference “The Future of the ‘Marketplace of Ideas’ in the Context of the Rise of the Internet, Fake News and Artificial Intelligence: Challenges for Constitutional Courts.” In her address, she highlighted new forms of interference in democratic processes, the growing risks of information manipulation, and their impact on the integrity of elections.

Sandu emphasized the essential role of constitutional courts in safeguarding fundamental rights and ensuring that citizens’ freely expressed will is respected. Drawing on Moldova’s experience, she noted that threats to democracy have become more sophisticated, driven by the rapid development of digital technologies and the use of AI for disinformation purposes.

She reiterated that “what is not allowed offline cannot be allowed online,” underscoring the need for consistent democratic protections across both physical and digital spaces.

The President also called for stronger international cooperation and heightened vigilance in the face of emerging challenges to democratic systems, stressing that coordinated action is essential to protect democratic institutions and public trust.