The Ukrainian press has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Golden Pen of Freedom Award at the World News Media Congress in Krakow, Poland. The award honors the resilience and dedication of Ukrainian journalists who have continued their work under extreme conditions since Russia’s invasion in 2022. Despite facing constant danger, these journalists have maintained their commitment to independent reporting and truth.
Oksana Brovko, CEO of the Association of Regional Press Publishers of Ukraine (AIRPPU), and Oleksii Pogorelov, President of the Ukraine Media Business Association (UMBA), both WAN-IFRA member organizations, accepted the award on behalf of the Ukrainian media community.
Oksana Brovko shared her thoughts: “We don’t write because we are brave. We write because silence is not an option. Independent journalism is not a luxury – it is the infrastructure of freedom. In Ukraine, we are keeping it alive under fire. This award is not a celebration; it is a responsibility to keep speaking, especially when silence is safer.”
Oleksii Pogorelov also expressed deep gratitude: “Your support, this recognition, are extremely important. It gives us strength and confirms that Ukrainian media professionals are not alone. We will keep doing our job and working for Ukrainians. Together, we will win!”
Martha Ramos, editorial director of Organización Editorial Mexicana (OEM) and president of WAN-IFRA’s World Editors Forum, praised Ukrainian journalists for their tireless work: “This is the time to stand on the right side of history, to support truth, justice, and the rule of law. It is not the time to waver in our commitment to facts and democratic values.”
Challenges Faced by Ukrainian Journalists
Since Russia’s invasion, local journalists have risked their lives to report on the ongoing conflict. They face numerous obstacles, including threats of attack, disinformation, and Russian propaganda. Their work is vital not only for providing citizens with accurate news but also for keeping people connected.
The dangers for journalists in Ukraine are profound. Newsrooms have been relocated multiple times, and reporters without hostile environment training are often sent to perilous areas. Sadly, at least 16 journalists have lost their lives since the war began.
Many media outlets are struggling to survive financially, with some shifting to digital-only formats or focusing on rebuilding efforts in war-torn regions. More than 300 independent media outlets have closed since the war started, and the number continues to grow.
The Role of Global Support
Despite these challenges, Ukrainian journalists remain resolute. Global organizations like WAN-IFRA play a crucial role in supporting them, helping ensure they know they are not alone in defending press freedom.
In March, the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU) released a study that highlighted how the war has disrupted the ability of journalists to operate safely and sustain their work financially.
The Golden Pen of Freedom Award: A Symbol of Courage
The Golden Pen of Freedom is WAN-IFRA’s annual award that recognizes individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to promoting and protecting press freedom. This year, the award acknowledges the extraordinary courage and resilience of the Ukrainian press in the face of oppression.
The award has been presented annually since 1961. This year, Ukrainian journalists join the ranks of past laureates who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the cause of press freedom.
For more information about the Golden Pen of Freedom and to read the full speeches of Oksana Brovko, Oleksii Pogorelov, and Martha Ramos, visit the following links:
For more background on Ukrainian press, read:
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Ukrainian Independent Media Wins WAN-IFRA’s 2025 Golden Pen of Freedom Award
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Beyond the Call of Duty: How Ukraine’s Journalists Respond to War
Support Ukrainian media through WAN-IFRA’s campaign: We, the Media
