Romania media study: Facebook dominates news use while traditional media retains trust

A joint study by Expert Forum (EFOR) and the Political Rating Agency (ARP) reveals a significant divide in how Romanians consume and trust information. While social media platforms are heavily used for news discovery, traditional media remains the primary source of trust.

Facebook remains a dominant platform for news consumption, used by approximately 38% of the population, often serving as a gateway to other sources. In contrast, TikTok is a major source for younger demographics and specific political groups, utilizing algorithms to drive emotional engagement and visibility. YouTube has also emerged as a significant player, particularly among the 40-59 age group, where it enjoys high credibility scores.

Despite the digital shift, television and radio maintain high levels of trust, especially among seniors and supporters of traditional political parties. Notably, the study highlights a growing skepticism in society, with over 20% of respondents stating they have no trusted news source at all.