Technological competition and disinformation trends in Romania

Political scientist Raluca Moldovan highlights a shift in global hegemony, where power is increasingly defined by algorithms, advanced semiconductors, and data centers rather than traditional military assets alone. Moldovan notes that artificial intelligence is transforming how power is exercised, affecting everything from pharmaceutical research to military planning. She emphasizes that control over critical links in semiconductor production grants disproportionate influence to specific nations.

In a separate discussion in Timișoara, communication expert Adriana Săftoiu addressed the impact of disinformation in Romania. Săftoiu cited historical examples, including false reports during the 1989 Revolution, vaccine misinformation during the pandemic, and recent disruptions regarding the 2024 elections. She advocated for the creation of a disinformation alphabet to help citizens navigate false information.