# Romanian media consumption and trust trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/romanian-media-consumption-and-trust-trends
> Updated: 2026-08-17T06:37:56.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

The media landscape in Romania is experiencing shifts in how information is consumed and trusted across different demographics and platforms.

Initial reports indicate that approximately 8% of Romanians use AI chatbots for news, a figure that increases to 15% among those aged 18 to 24. These users typically seek context or summaries rather than replacing traditional journalism. This technological shift occurs alongside rising digital misinformation, such as social media conspiracy theories regarding the diversion of Danube water to France.

Subsequent survey data shows that traditional media, including radio and television, maintain high levels of trust, particularly among highly educated citizens and seniors. While social media platforms play distinct roles—Facebook for community mobilization, TikTok for rapid engagement among rural youth, and Instagram for a small segment of younger users—YouTube has emerged as a major information source. YouTube's credibility scores nearly match traditional radio and television, and it enjoys particularly high trust levels among the 40-59 age demographic.

A joint study by Expert Forum (EFOR) and the Political Rating Agency (ARP) further clarifies these trends, noting that Facebook remains a dominant platform for news consumption, used by approximately 38% of the population and often serving as a gateway to other sources. While digital platforms drive engagement, a growing skepticism is evident in society, with over 20% of respondents stating they have “no trusted news source at all.”

## Timeline

### 2026-08-17: Romania media study: Facebook dominates news use while traditional media retains trust

A study by Expert Forum and ARP shows Romanians use Facebook and TikTok for news, but continue to place the highest trust in traditional media like television and radio.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-media-survey-shows-traditional-outlets-maintain-high-trust

### 2026-08-09: Romania news consumption shifts toward AI chatbots amid rising social media conspiracies

Recent data shows 8% of Romanians use AI chatbots for news, reaching 15% among youth, while misinformation regarding the Danube's water levels spreads via social media.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-news-consumption-shifts-toward-ai-chatbots-amid-rising-social-media-conspiracies

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Cite as: Romanian media consumption and trust trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/romanian-media-consumption-and-trust-trends