Last summer, messages started pouring in about the disappearance of Victoria Roshchyna, a 26-year-old Ukrainian journalist who went missing while reporting from occupied east Ukraine. The Coalition for Women in Journalism, led by Kiran Nazish, received numerous concerns about the safety of female journalists worldwide, but the urgency of Roshchyna’s case was palpable. For eight long months, there was silence surrounding her whereabouts until it was revealed that she was in Russian detention.
The news of Roshchyna’s death in Russian custody shook the journalism community to its core. She became the ninth female journalist to lose her life as a result of doing her job since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. The lack of transparency surrounding her death, with Russian authorities refusing to hand over her body to Ukrainian officials, has left her family and colleagues without closure.
The pattern of violence and intimidation against female journalists covering the war in Ukraine is alarming. Russia has been implicated in the detention and abduction of numerous women journalists, both within its borders and in occupied territories. The international community must hold Russia and other violators accountable for their treatment of journalists, ensuring that those detained are provided with the necessary care and legal support.
The case of Irinia Danilovich, a Crimean citizen journalist who suffered mistreatment in Russian detention, highlights the urgent need for action. Organizations like Zmina have been working tirelessly to raise awareness about her situation and push for her release. The protection of journalists, especially women, should be a top priority for all governments and international bodies.
The stories of Roshchyna, Danilovich, and countless other female journalists serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who seek to uncover the truth in conflict zones. Their bravery and dedication to journalism must be honored and protected. It is crucial for the global community to stand united in condemning the arbitrary arrest and mistreatment of journalists, ensuring that they can continue their vital work without fear of reprisal.
