EFJ calls for support for NUJU’s Network of Journalists’ Solidarity Centers

On the eve of the third anniversary of russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) is calling on its affiliates across Europe to support the campaign launched by the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU) to ensure the operation of the network of Journalists’ Solidarity Centers (JSC) in 2025.

The NUJU, with the support of the International and European Federations of Journalists and UNESCO, has established six JSCs in Ukraine: five offices – in Lviv (with a representative office in Chernivtsi), Ivano-Frankivsk, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro and Kharkiv, as well as the headquarters in Kyiv.

The Centers, established in 2022 through the special Security Fund of the International and European Federations of Journalists, have become vital for Ukrainian and foreign journalists working on the ground. They provide safe workplaces, protective equipment, first aid kits, and emergency assistance, especially in frontline regions such as Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipro.

Although UNESCO has been a key institutional partner for over two years, its funding will end on 15 March 2025, creating a critical situation for the work of the Centers.

“Despite the long-lasting war, we must continue to support Ukrainian journalists and do everything we can to ensure the continued work of the Centers. These safe spaces have proven crucial for supporting independent journalism in Ukraine. We cannot let our Ukrainian colleagues down,” said Maja Sever, the President of the EFJ.

NUJU President Sergiy Tomilenko stressed the role of international solidarity: “The creation and work of our Centers were made possible by the incredible international solidarity of journalists after the invasion. We are grateful to every union for their continued support and care. This unity in our professional community helped save lives and support the flow of truthful information from Ukraine.”