“Ukrainians do not want our future to be decided for us,” Lina Kushch

“The work of Ukrainian journalists is not only to inform, but also to protect the territorial integrity and democracy of Ukraine,” says Lina Kushch, First Secretary of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU), in the podcast Eyes on Democracy.

She emphasizes that in conditions of war, Ukrainian media workers work under the constant threat of russian drones that attack civilian cars and editorial teams. Local journalists often do not have protective equipment, but continue to cover the situation on the front lines, organize evacuations, and look for new workspaces to remain on the scene.

Due to the loss of income and advertising sources, many publications are on the verge of closure. “If local media stop their activities, russian propaganda fills this space,” emphasizes Lina Kushch.

She adds that Ukrainian journalists also record citizens’ opinions on peace agreements. “We see that our future is being decided for us,” says the First Secretary.

Despite any announcements of a ceasefire, shelling continues on the front, and society is not ready to hand over territories to the control of the aggressor. The media documents the position of Ukrainians and translates it for an international audience in order to shape public opinion and influence the decisions of Ukrainian and world officials.

NUJU Information Service