As digital threats continue to evolve, we were pleased to meet and work with Moldovan civil society during a series of in-person digital security trainings in Chișinău and Bălți. The trainings brought together activists, journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society organisations from across the country. They were well-attended and warmly received. Participants engaged in practical, hands-on exercises and worked directly with regional digital security experts to strengthen their online safety, protect their communications, and increase the resilience of their organisations.
The strong participation and high level of engagement confirmed just how urgent and relevant digital security has become for civil society in Moldova. From targeted digital attacks to phishing attempts and data vulnerabilities, defenders and independent media continue to face rapidly evolving risks that demand up-to-date and versatile skills together with reliable security practices. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate closely with Moldovan civil society and support their efforts to remain safe, informed, and alert in an increasingly challenging digital environment.
Participants highlighted the value and impact of the trainings:
‘This training was quite important for me as a beginner leader of an initiative group. About 80% of the information was new to me, and for a queer group in Bălți, security is extremely important. I will share the information and skills with our beneficiaries.’ – Vivid Voices
‘For an independent newsroom, digital security training is essential. Protecting sources, sensitive data, and internal communication can no longer be left to chance. This training helps us understand real risks and build a newsroom that is better prepared, more responsible, and more resilient.’ – Polina Cupcea, Oameni si Kilometri
‘I refreshed my knowledge thanks to the experts and learned about new forms of digital threats… Such trainings are necessary at least once a year in every newsroom and NGO.’ – Lilia Curchi, EcoPresa
‘No boring theory. Lots of useful, hands-on practice and interactivity. I left with ideas and skills that I can use to strengthen both my personal digital security and that of my organisation.’ – Anton Matushenko, EcoVisio
We thank all participants for their dedication and openness, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration to support a safer and more resilient digital environment for civil society in Moldova.
These trainings are part of the DigitalSafeguard, a project led by ARTICLE 19 Europe, with support from local partners. The initiative aims to enhance the digital resilience of civil society in Ukraine and Moldova, amid escalating threats such as hacking, surveillance, phishing, malware, data theft, cyberbullying, and digital intimidation. The programme focuses on capacity-building to strengthen the resilience of digital security providers and their ability to deliver effective support, while also equipping civil society and vulnerable groups with practical tools needed to protect themselves against digital threats. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, DigitalSafeguard promotes a safer digital landscape with robust support systems, enabling civil society to safely exercise their fundamental freedoms and human rights.
