London Hosts Photo Exhibition Highlighting the Courageous Work of Ukrainian Journalists During the War
In the heart of London, a significant event took place—an exhibition titled ‘Visual Testimonies of War’ was unveiled, shedding light on the extraordinary efforts of Ukrainian journalists operating amidst the ongoing conflict.
Organized by the Institute of Mass Information (IMI) and Reporters Without Borders, this photo exhibition was launched to demonstrate the resilience and dedication of Ukrainian media workers facing daily dangers.
It forms part of a broader initiative through the Independent Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukrainian Media (IFRUM), aimed at supporting and rebuilding independent Ukrainian journalism that has borne the brunt of the brutal invasion.
The exposition showcases over a dozen works by Ukrainian photojournalists who have documented the war’s most critical moments—from devastating destruction to heroic battles and civilian suffering.
Photographers such as Anastasia Stanko, Andrii Mikheiev, Vyacheslav Ratinovsky, Stas Kozlyuk, Stas Yurchenko, Oleksandr Khomenko, Serhii Nuzhnenko, Nikoletta Stoyanova, and Vlad Musiyenko contributed to this profound visual narrative.
The organizers emphasize that these photographs are more than mere images; they represent stories of perseverance, courage, and unwavering commitment to truth.
Deputy Director of IMI Hanna Chabarey noted the importance of showing international partners the harsh conditions under which Ukrainian media operate, underscoring the critical role they play in defending truth and independence.
The exhibition also features a dedicated section monitoring crimes committed by Russia against journalists and media outlets since February 24, 2022.
According to IMI, over 800 incidents have been recorded during the full-scale invasion, including 12 journalist fatalities, closure of 333 media outlets, and the unlawful detention of at least 26 Ukrainian journalists in Russia.
The ongoing war has claimed the lives of 147 Ukrainian artists and 95 media professionals to date.
Many media workers remain in Russian captivity, a situation that continues to inspire advocacy efforts for their release.
One such effort took place during a meeting in Kyiv involving diplomats and human rights advocates, emphasizing the urgent need for international support.
Among the fallen, Ukrainian military journalist Victoria Roshina, known for her reporting on war crimes and human rights abuses, received the Oxi Courage Award posthumously from the Washington Oxi Day Foundation.
In March 2022, she was detained by FSB agents in Berdyansk, subjected to torture, and kept in captivity.
She was finally released but coerced into recording a video denouncing the Ukrainian military.
She disappeared on August 12, 2024, while on a mission on occupied territories, and her death was confirmed days later—another tragic loss in the ongoing fight for truth and justice.
These stories underscore the staggering human cost of the conflict and the vital importance of international solidarity to protect those who risk everything to keep the world informed about Ukraine’s fight for freedom.