Within the framework of the 2nd Eastern Partnership Media conference, EED is hosting a pre-event on 12 September “Democracy and Propaganda – Can independent media defend universal values?”

This special event will discuss the role of independent media outlets in the context of rapidly changing political landscapes and transforming societies in the Eastern Partnership and beyond.

The first part of the event will examine the importance of independent media as a response to propaganda, while the second part will focus on the role of donors in assisting independent media outlets. A number of success stories of supported initiatives will be highlighted.

Speakers include Andriy Kulykov, CEO of Ukraine’s Hromadske Radio, and Zhanna Nemtsova, Deutsche Welle journalist and founder of the Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom.

Speaking ahead of the event, EED Executive Director, Jerzy Pomianowski, said:

“Democracy and media are unequivocally linked, one defining the other and both have the power to change societies. As a vital pillar of democracy, support for a free, diverse and independent media is therefore a pivotal element of EED’s work and mandate.”

Approximately one-third of EED projects are media-related (83 initiatives since 2013 worth €4.1 million). Through this support, EED aims to contribute to building the capacities of local media to grow as independent and quality channels for communication, and as a mechanism for promoting and protecting democratic values.

Taking place in Kyiv on 13 September, the 2nd Eastern Partnership Media Conference offers a unique platform to examine how the European Union and other donors can best support independent journalism in these countries. It aims to shine a spotlight on the growing challenges facing journalists in the EU’s Eastern partner countries.

Bringing together 350 media professionals and donors from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine as well as the EU Member States and beyond, the event is organised by the European Commission together with the European External Action Service and with support of the Government of Ukraine.

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