Free Speech CRACKDOWN – Journalists MUZZLED!

At a Glance

IPI documents nearly 1000 attacks on journalists related to Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Russia faces accusations of targeting journalists in Ukraine with missile attacks.
Journalists encounter systematic censorship, arrests, and repression in Russia.
Russian legislation labels factual reporting on the war as “fake news.”
Global press freedom is under severe threat due to these actions.

Heightened Scrutiny and Prosecution

Russia is increasingly prosecuting journalists who report on the Ukraine conflict, causing widespread alarm about press freedom. The International Press Institute (IPI) has documented almost 1,000 attacks on media freedom due to this war. Since the invasion began on February 24, 2022, there have been at least 980 threats and attacks against journalists.

The majority of these violations are committed by Russian soldiers or authorities. Among the casualties is Ukrainian journalist Bohdan Bitik, the most recent journalist killed in the line of duty. The situation in Russia is dire, with reporters facing systemic censorship, arrests, and harsh repressions, such as the arrest of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich on espionage charges.

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Censorship and Legislation

Russian legislation now labels factual reporting on the Ukraine war as “fake news,” carrying penalties of up to 15 years in prison. This move has effectively silenced independent journalism within Russia, where censorship, fines, and publication bans are rampant. Journalists face unimaginable risks, including potential torture and unlawful detention.

The situation extends beyond Russia’s borders. At least 12 major cyber-attacks targeted media in both Russia and Ukraine, with half of these attacks likely supporting Russian interests. Furthermore, journalists in Ukraine are also facing restrictions, with local authorities denying access to publicly available information under martial law.

Targeting Journalists and Media Facilities

Russia faces fresh accusations of targeting journalists in Ukraine. Missile attacks in late December struck hotels known for hosting international correspondents and aid organizations. The International Federation of Journalists condemned these attacks, highlighting evidence that these actions were intended to intimidate and limit war coverage.

Yaroslav Trofimov, chief foreign affairs correspondent at the Wall Street Journal, noted, “Russia is routinely bombing hotels in the east and the south, in part to make it more dangerous for journalists and NGOs to operate.”

Vladimir Putin has been indicted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court, further escalating the global outcry against Russia’s actions. The statement from global press organizations calls for immediate action to hold perpetrators accountable for war crimes committed against journalists in the Ukraine conflict.

The continued shelling and targeting of journalists and media facilities violate international humanitarian law and constitute war crimes. At least five women journalists have been killed since the invasion started, adding to the grim toll taken on media professionals.