Support for committees
Rights, Accreditation and Standards in Wartime Journalism
In time of war, journalism plays a pivotal role for Ukraine, as it provides the society with timely, objective and reliable information. In times of conflict, people need accurate news about events on the frontline, security, the humanitarian situation, as well as international support. Journalists help to identify fakes and propaganda, which is especially important in countering the information war conducted by enemy forces. Thanks to independent journalism, citizens can form reasonable opinions and make thoughtful decisions, which supports the spirit and unity of the nation.
Besides, journalism in wartime serves as international information and advocacy. Reports by Ukrainian and foreign journalists on events in Ukraine attract the attention of the international community, raising awareness of the scale of the conflict, violations of human rights and humanitarian needs. This contributes to increasing international pressure on the aggressor, building support among the allies, and raising additional aid. In this way, journalism becomes not only a tool for communicating information, but also a tool for strengthening international solidarity with Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and independence.
USAID RADA: Next Generation Program works closely with the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Freedom of Speech and provides analytical support to adapt media policy to the realities of martial law and keep pace with the best international practices. Program experts prepared the following information and analytical materials for the Committee:
- Journalistic Standards and Professional Ethics in Wartime;
- Procedure for accreditation of journalists on the contact line;
- Protection of the rights of journalists in captivity;
- Freedom of Speech or Freedom to Lie: Facts or Fakes (on approaches to the definitions of “fake news” and “disinformation”) (щодо підходів до визначень понять «фейкові новини», «дезінформація»).
The materials are prepared by the USAID RADA: Next Generation Program to provide analytical support to the work of the Parliament. This document is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the exclusive responsibility of the author or authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.