“Following this morning’s invasion, the work of IMI, their partners and allies, and independent journalists across Ukraine and Russia is needed now more than ever. The safety of journalists, as well as the right to protest needs to be assured." - IFEX Executive Director Annie Game.
IFEX, the global network of over 100 organisations dedicated to promoting and defending the right to freedom of expression and information, is expressing solidarity with its Ukrainian member, the Institute of Mass Information (IMI), following this morning’s Russian invasion.
Amidst emerging reports of Russian censorship and arrests of protestors and journalists, IFEX notes that Russia’s violence and aggression has put the lives of countless journalists, human rights defenders, and everyday citizens in danger. The safety of journalists and the right to protest must be respected, in accordance with international law. IFEX underlines the essential role independent journalism and freedom of expression play in ensuring people in Ukraine, Russia, and across the world can access accurate information about the conflict.
“The thoughts, support, and solidarity of the entire IFEX network are with our IMI colleagues in Ukraine today,” stated IFEX Executive Director Annie Game. “For years, IMI has played a key role in Ukrainian civil society, standing up for press freedom, tackling rampant disinformation, and working to advance freedom of expression.”
Game continued: “Following this morning’s invasion, the work of IMI, their partners and allies, and independent journalists across Ukraine and Russia is needed now more than ever. The safety of journalists, as well as the right to protest needs to be assured. We acknowledge and support all those working to ensure people across the globe can access trustworthy and accurate information.”
IFEX’s call echoes statements from leading intergovernmental officials, including UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion & Expression Irene Khan who stated that an “independent, pluralistic and free media is the best antidote against disinformation in war or peace,” and Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatovic who urged Russia to “adhere strictly to international humanitarian and human rights law.”
Updates from the developing situation in Ukraine are available from IMI’s website in Ukrainian and English, as well as on IMI’s Twitter feed and Facebook page.
