As digital media continues to shape public conversation, and with social platforms playing a key role during Romania’s recent elections, the Center for Civic Participation and Democracy (CPD) extended its monitoring efforts into early 2024. Between December and February, the team tracked how Romania’s main public institutions were represented online, using media intelligence and social listening tools to measure mentions and estimated reach on both news websites and Facebook. The result offers a snapshot of institutional visibility, influence, and the narratives driving online engagement.
The full report can be accessed here.
Constitutional controversy in the spotlight
Justice institutions stay in focus
Judicial bodies such as DIICOT, DNA, and the High Court of Cassation and Justice (ÎCCJ) also maintained strong online visibility. Their involvement in major investigations, including cases tied to the Tate brothers, the Nordis real estate group, and campaign financing, which kept public attention focused. Ongoing interest in corruption and political scandals ensured these institutions stayed at the center of media coverage.
Elections and political shifts drive online attention
Political developments also added to the digital momentum. The certification of parliamentary election results, the formation of a new government, and the temporary handover of presidential duties from Klaus Iohannis to interim president Ilie Bolojan all led to a spike in mentions for institutions such as the Chamber of Deputies, the Presidency, and the Cabinet.
Media landscape and regional dynamics
While national media outlets dominated content production, regional and local press also played a significant role — particularly in reporting on police and judicial institutions. Facebook remained a central channel for content distribution, although the visibility of institutional pages varied.
The online presence of Romanian institutions between December 2024 and February 2025 — a period marked by electoral tension and political transition — was strongly influenced by developments in the political and judicial arenas. As the country approaches future election cycles, digital visibility will remain both a reflection of public interest and a strategic tool for shaping political narratives.
