Ombudsman calls journalists a component of Ukrainian resilience

Dmytro Lubinets, the Commissioner for Human Rights at the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, during his speech on the occasion of Human Rights Day on December 10, separately addressed Ukrainian and international journalists, calling their work the fourth component of Ukrainian resilience – along with responsibility, equality, and faith.

“The fourth component of our resilience is truth,” the Ombudsman emphasized, addressing the journalists and media workers present.

Dmytro Lubinets thanked media representatives for their work in conditions of full-scale war:

“You help us show the truth. You do not let people get used to war. You ask uncomfortable questions to the authorities,” the Commissioner noted.

He expressed special gratitude to journalists who work in the most dangerous conditions:

“Many of you work under shelling, in frontline territories, even under occupation. Thank you for your professionalism and loyalty to the principles of freedom of speech.

In his speech, the Ombudsman outlined the challenges facing Ukraine: from the loss of territories and millions of displaced persons to the daily struggle for the basic rights of citizens. He emphasized that Ukraine is fighting for its right to exist, because “if there is no Ukraine, we will have no rights at all.”

Dmytro Lubinets also appealed to international partners to “restore the rule of law,” quoting the 35^th US President John F. Kennedy: “Nations that pretend not to see evil eventually become its victims.”

The Ombudsman’s speech took place as part of the Human Rights Day events in the presence of Ukrainian and international guests, government representatives, and civil society.

NUJU Information Service