This study explores the phenomenon of pro-Kremlin disinformation among young people in Cluj-Napoca. The research addresses the need to combat disinformation in Romania, an important issue faced by the local public that has intensified in recent years. The main objective was to identify the forms and depth of disinformation within our target group. We conducted six focus group discussions with young people from Cluj, using a semi-structured guide. Overall, our participants did not demonstrate significant susceptibility to or exposure to disinformation narratives, which contradicts several studies in the field. However, we identified the following key findings: Participants primarily obtain their information from credible sources, demonstrating considerable resilience to disinformation. They generally prefer formal news outlets with high authority.
- Specific vulnerabilities: Certain pro-Kremlin narratives present a higher risk of engagement and interaction from the public or resonate more with young people.
- Minimal personal impact: At an individual level, participants did not report significant impacts from disinformation.
- Family influence: Family members are perceived as more vulnerable to disinformation compared to participants’ circles of friends.
- Visibility of AUR and SOS parties: While participants noted high visibility of these parties, they did not show direct susceptibility to their narratives.
- Low media education: Respondents emphasized the need for educational programs in Romania, particularly in rural areas, to promote critical thinking and media literacy.
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