Informed 11


Update Truth prevails in Ukraine


Sergiy Tomilenko, president of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU) updates on the situation in Ukraine. Michelle Stanistreet heard of the


resilience shown by Ukrainian journalists during the war waged by Russia at a meeting with Tomilenko, part of solidarity engagement between the NUJ and our sister union. Tomilenko described the eradication


of Ukrainian news media in some regions including areas occupied by Russia. Here, the batle focused not only on efforts to revive accurate and truthful journalism but to resist concerted efforts by Russian authorities to spread disinformation, including the creation of fake newspapers delivered in Mariupol where a genuine media brand was used to deceive and spread lies. Ukrainian journalists have refused to back down however, witnessing the impact their journalism has on communities reliant on it to expose Putin’s propaganda. Te reinstatement of print titles in some de-occupied territories has had a profound impact, and it is the passion and value placed on reporting including by locals, that drives journalists to continue in their fight against misinformation.


In 2022-2023, NUJU helped re-start 30 publications of print media from frontline and de-occupied areas. “In Mykolaiv, one reader kissed and hugged the newspaper when he received a copy” said Tomilenko. Te dedication of journalists is apparent including by Oleksandr Kulbaka, editor- in-chief of the Sloviyansk newspaper who returns to Slovaiansk to distribute his title’s newspaper despite evacuating his family to another region. As the dangers to those reporting


in frontline territories remain, it is the international solidarity and donations that allow the independent press in Ukraine to thrive. Safety equipment including press vests are essential and NUJ donations and those to the International Federation of Journalists’ Safety Fund have helped provide life- saving equipment.


NUJU is unwavering in their commitment to members, steadfast in raising awareness of the manipulated narratives Russia atempts to promote whilst arresting journalists and threatening their families when they refuse to join propaganda efforts. Resisting blocks on Ukrainian media, atacks on publishing houses and kidnappings is now part of the fabric of the Ukrainian union, but speaking out against crimes against journalists will continue. Tomilenko said: “Professional media


serve as our strongest shield against Russian propaganda in frontline territories. When people receive reliable local newspapers, they don’t just get information - they get hope and a vital connection to Ukraine. But as winter approaches, we face new challenges with Russia targeting critical infrastructure. “Our Journalists’ Solidarity Centres become even more crucial, providing powered safe spaces for journalists to continue their work. International solidarity, especially from colleagues like the NUJ, helps us maintain these vital lifelines of truth... every gesture of support from our international colleagues reminds us that we’re not alone in our mission to keep independent journalism alive.” Please encourage your branch to donate to the IFJ’s Safety Fund.


Safety of Gaza’s journalists


In light of the unimaginable suffering of Palestinian journalists reporting from Gaza, the NUJ has writen to Ambassador Dana Erlich, Israel’s ambassador to Ireland and Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely, ambassador to the UK. Michelle Stanistreet and Séamus Dooley have urged greater action to ensure the safety of journalists and for


an end to the violations of international law witnessed. Te union was robust in its response to Ambassador Erlich who failed to address the need for foreign media access into the country, choosing instead to atack Irish media for its coverage of war. Dooley said: “Te bravery of journalists in Gaza whose reporting allows the world to witness the realities of war must be


commended and it is right Irish media continue as they have; to accurately report on Israel’s atacks on press freedom and deliberate efforts to silence.”


Frenchie Mae Cumpio Te Filipino journalist detained since 2020 and held on charges related to terrorism financing and illegal firearm possession testified at a hearing


in November. Te NUJ requested an official observer be sent to her trial on behalf of the UK embassy. Parliamentary intervention in the form of an Early Day Motion tabled by NUJ Parliamentary Group member Liz Saville Roberts atracted signatures from parliamentarians urging the UK government to use diplomatic efforts to secure her release.


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