The Foundation for the Defense of the Citizen Against State Abuses sent a request to the Romanian Government in early April, seeking details of the actions the Executive is taking to limit the spread of false news. FACIAS asked for clarification on possible meetings between the Government and certain non-governmental organisations aimed at creating a mechanism to sanction fake news. These questions include the criteria for the selection of invited non-governmental organisations, the participants in these meetings, the resulting documents and future plans on this issue.
The whole world is facing a maze of misinformation, a maze full of fake news, which is becoming a significant obstacle to genuine communication and a clear understanding of the reality we live in. Fake news undermines democracy, fuels social polarisation and erodes public trust in state institutions. Under these circumstances, FACIAS tried to find out what the Romanian Government is doing to combat this phenomenon.
Unfortunately, the government's lack of transparency applies to this situation as well, so that information is so far late to be communicated. Under these circumstances, FACIAS has decided to sue the Government to get the answers it is seeking!
Government undermines citizens' credibility in state institutions
FACIAS expresses its deep concern and dissatisfaction with the Romanian Government's refusal to respond to legitimate requests for information of public interest. Despite the Government's theoretical commitment to transparency and public accountability, FACIAS has observed a worrying tendency to avoid answering essential questions concerning the openness and impartiality of its procedures. The Government's refusal to answer these questions not only undermines its credibility, but also weakens public confidence in its ability to fight disinformation and protect democracy. FACIAS calls on the Government to honour its commitment to transparency and answer these questions.
FACIAS reaffirms its commitment to defending citizens' rights and combating abuses of state power, and continues to demand accountability, transparency and an answer to the questions.