Media resilience under fire: Lviv Media Forum & ECPMF at #ijf26

We are proud to announce that Lviv Media Forum, in partnership with the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), will host a panel discussion at the International Journalism Festival in Perugia.

Being a journalist in Ukraine is more difficult than ever. Reporters face direct threats to their lives and health on the front lines, as well as severe financial challenges following the termination of USAID support. What do journalists working in a war zone truly need? How can they report from the front lines when they are deliberately targeted by Russian drone operators, and when Ukrainian press officers are increasingly reluctant to accompany journalists due to the extreme risks involved?

With three panelists from Ukraine, this discussion will offer insight into the challenges journalists face in Kyiv, in the regions, and along the front lines—and how they continue to work despite these obstacles. The Lviv Media Forum has conducted research on the economic situation and future prospects of Ukrainian media following the withdrawal of USAID funding. Together with our panelists, we will discuss the need for continued international support for Ukrainian media, as well as explore ideas for strengthening the resilience and long-term economic sustainability of the media sector, particularly at the regional level.

Date: April 16, 2026

Time: 15:00–15:50 (CET) 

Location: Teatro della Sapienza, Perugia

We will provide a live stream on the Lviv Media Forum Facebook page.

Our speakers:

Moderated by: Olha Syrotiuk, Programme Coordinator at the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF).

Check out the full festival program for more details.