Reporting on Russia’s authoritarian narratives

Ukraine is fighting not only a military invasion, but a sustained information war. Russia’s aggression is accompanied by a constant stream of narratives designed to deny responsibility, distort reality, and exhaust audiences far beyond the battlefield. These messages move easily across borders, are repeated by powerful political actors, and increasingly shape how global audiences understand — or misunderstand — the war.
Drawing on newsroom practice, long-term research, and international reporting experience, the speakers will examine how authoritarian narratives enter global news agenda, and how journalists can report on them without reinforcing bias or misinformation. The discussion will include concrete editorial decisions: how to cover official statements designed to mislead without amplifying them, how much context is enough when audiences are already overwhelmed, and how language and framing can either challenge or reinforce propaganda. The panel will also address the pressures newsrooms face when authoritarian narratives dominate headlines, offering practical insights into responsible, effective journalism in an increasingly hostile information environment.
Moderated by Olga Rudenko.
Organised in association with The Kyiv Independent.