‘Checkmate, with Ion and Ignat’ – EU-funded animated series premieres on Moldovan TV
Ion and Ignat were childhood classmates, but their paths in life have taken them in different directions. Their views on the future of Moldova may vary, but one thing still unites them—their shared passion for chess. This is the plot of ‘Checkmate, with Ion and Ignat’, a new animated series launched by Jurnal TV Moldova in collaboration with EU NEIGHBOURS East and renowned Moldovan artist Mitoș Micleușanu.
Through engaging comedy animated sketches, the series explores key topics such as EU support for Moldova, the benefits of European integration, media literacy, and the way that Moldovans consume information.
By adopting this creative and innovative approach, the project aims to enrich public discourse on EU enlargement, enhance understanding of EU policies in Moldova, and counter Russian disinformation narratives related to EU support.
“We believe this unique format will help people better understand the EU and what it offers Moldova. Additionally, we see this project as our contribution to promoting media literacy and fostering healthier content consumption habits in Moldova,” says Jurnal TV Programme Director Dumitru Mișin.
Artist Mitoș Micleușanu explained the creative concept at the core of the project: “The concept originated from the search for an accessible and credible format for the general public, especially in this socially and politically complex period that Moldova is currently going through. The project emphasises the debates and contradictory discussions between the two protagonists, who, despite their disagreements and differing perspectives, maintain a collegial relationship, filled with irony and shared interests.”
Micleușanu believes that this project advocates for principles based on human rights, and educational, cultural, and economic progress, and supports the European Union’s efforts to maintain the democratic course of Moldova, to preserve and promote a clear, realistic, and unaltered EU perspective.
All episodes will be available on the EU NEIGHBOURS East YouTube channel — stay tuned!
