Ukrainian journalists visit Budapest, Sofia and Rome

Budapest, Hungary:

The study visit of the second cohort of Ukrainian journalists, fellows of the Europe Ukraine Desk project, kicked-off in Budapest, Hungary. A key highlight was the meeting with Peter Kreko, political analyst and CEO of Political Capital, who discussed the Hungarian media landscape and the government's response to the Russo-Ukrainian war. Kreko introduced the concept of "informational autocracies," highlighting Hungary's increasingly restricted media market. Discussions also addressed the Hungarian minority in Ukraine, a significant issue in bilateral relations, with insights from Csilla Fedinec. Meetings with independent newsrooms like Magyar Hang, telex.hu, and HVG were particularly valuable, offering perspectives on media resilience against government pressure.

Sofia, Bulgaria:

Sofia was the second stop for Ukrainian journalists on the trip. For many, Bulgaria's media landscape was uncharted territory. Journalist Yavor Siderov explained Bulgaria's strategic position in energy trade routes and its current political battleground between pro- and anti-Western forces. A networking event hosted by the Association of European Journalists covered topics like energy security and Ukraine's European integration. The panel, moderated by BNR journalist Irina Nedeva, featured speakers from both Ukrainian and Bulgarian media. The group also met colleagues from Darik Radio, 24 Chasa, and NOVA TV. Oksana Khmelyovska, chief editor of Chytomo, noted the diverse and active Bulgarian media environment despite financial constraints and partial state influence, emphasizing the need for cultural exchange between the two nations.

Rome, Italy:

The final destination of the first fellow's trip was Rome, Italy. The program included visits to weekly magazines L'Espresso and Internazionale, and daily newspaper Il Foglio. Media expert Paolo Mossetti provided insights into the Italian media landscape, discussing the role of deeper cultural factors beyond Russian propaganda in Italy's support for Ukraine. Giovanni Savino, a researcher in the History of Russia, highlighted Russia's economic and cultural influence in Italy. The trip concluded with a panel discussion on the impact of Russia's invasion on EU and Ukrainian energy supplies. Energy expert Serhii Barbu informed Italian colleagues about the damage to Ukraine's energy system from Russian missile attacks, with additional insights from Gionata Picchio of Staffetta Quotidiana. This exchange helped Ukrainian journalists understand the Italian political and media landscape, aiding in the contextualization of foreign policies related to Ukraine.