The European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) expresses our solidarity with our friends, partners, and colleagues in Ukraine, and with all journalists and media workers in the country. We are incredibly saddened and concerned by the latest reports of the large-scale Russian military attack.
“The unprecedented military invasion of Russia in Ukraine is an attack against all democratic values and humanitarian principles defining Europe. It is vital that journalists remain able to cover the developments independently,” said Yannis Kotsifos, chair of ECPMF’s Executive Board.
At a time like this, when sustained and reliable information is of the utmost importance, it is crucial that free media can continue to operate across Ukraine without undue restrictions.
Rebecca Harms, vice-chair of ECPMF’s Executive Board said: “I welcome and support the free reporting being carried out by Ukrainian journalists and foreign correspondents, often under life-threatening risks. I thank you all for your professional work in the face of a new, horrid military attack on Ukraine. You are crucial sources of information and all of us depend and rely on the quality of your work.”
The physical safety of journalists and media workers working on the frontline is of great concern and the highest importance. Accurate and impartial media reports from conflict zones serve a fundamental public interest, and images and news can have a decisive impact on the outcome of armed conflict.
“I commend journalists in Ukraine for their commitment to sharing up-to-date and trustworthy information. Your work is truly invaluable. We ask European institutions and civil society to help provide the resources needed so that courageous reporters can keep informing us on the war,” said Lutz Kinkel, ECPMF’s managing director.
