Where does this end and recommendations for policymakers and civil society

E. Barış Altıntaş, Journalist

Despite the challenges the journalists have dealt with, many have shown great resilience and dedication to continue their journalistic work. Not all of them, but most of them have found ways to adapt, such as leveraging digital platforms and networks, to keep reporting on issues important to them and their audience.

Yury in Berlin continues his collaboration with TV Rain, Novaya Gazeta Europe, and other independent media, demonstrating his commitment to journalism and adaptability in continuing to produce content for the Russian audience from abroad. Valery continues reporting on his YouTube station. Sofia, who has adapted to her new circumstances in Lithuania, is continuing her work as an author and editor for Radio Free Europe’s regional project.

Shashkov, even after facing job loss and much stress in Berlin, has still found ways to remain in the profession. Aleksandr Pichugin continues to edit his independent site “Reporter-NN” and has tried different approaches to journalism in Georgia, showing his adaptability and dedication to providing independent news.

Mark Nebesny also continues to operate his media. Despite the loss of audience, with the use of circumventing censorship through mirror sites and social networks, he has remained committed to journalism.

Not all of them have been able to continue their journalism, though. “I’ve been in Germany for two years now. Since I was newly exiled from my profession, I tried to follow up on my work. I attempted to prepare dossiers on migration issues.”

Despite his desire to remain active in journalism and assist his colleagues in Turkey, Kaplan faced significant hurdles. “I wanted to do a bit more. I also wanted to help my colleagues in Turkey by producing news from outside and contributing to the organizations we worked for. But after coming here, that wasn’t very feasible.”

One of the primary obstacles Kaplan encountered was the language barrier, which significantly limited his ability to produce content in Germany. He explains, “Creating something here is a bit problematic, primarily because of the language barrier. And frankly, in Germany, there isn’t a very open media landscape for journalists coming from outside.”

However, he acknowledges the efforts of other exiled journalists who have managed to create substantial work from abroad related to Turkey’s current affairs: “There are colleagues abroad who prepare many significant dossiers, doing serious work related to Turkey’s agenda. Personally, I might not have been able to continue this.”

Recommendations for policymakers and civil society

The stories of exiled journalists, as revealed through the interviews with the seven Russian and four Turkish journalists who sought refuge in various countries, paint a vivid picture of the multifaceted challenges they face.

The following recommendations, drawn from their insights and our research, are directed toward governments, media companies, and civil society organizations.

Comprehensive support

Exiled journalists encounter a complex web of challenges, ranging from financial instability to emotional and psychological strain. A predominant issue is the financial difficulty they face, especially given the high cost of living and the challenge of sustaining their journalistic work in a new environment. This often forces them to seek employment in unrelated fields, which can further disconnect them from their profession and audience.

The bureaucratic labyrinth of obtaining visas and residency permits is another significant hurdle. The process is usually protracted and convoluted, impeding their ability to work and settle effectively. For instance, the short validity of certain permits, like the journalistic residence permit in Lithuania, creates a sense of instability and uncertainty, impacting not just the journalists but also their families, who may not be able to join them.

In other cases, visa safety can downright be a serious security issue. This concerns not just journalists but all of the Russian opposition or anyone who is remotely political but has spoken against the war. In a most recent example, at the time of writing, Thailand nearly sent Bi-2 rock band members to Moscow under pressure from Russian diplomats. The musicians have made their anti-war stance clear, and Russia decided to go after them after a concert. All of the seven members eventually could be flown to Israel, even those that held only Russian citizenship, but after much stress and political effort. Had any of them been returned to Russia, there could have been grave consequences.

In the case of journalists, another problem is adapting to a new journalistic environment while maintaining relevance and connection to their original audience, which is difficult. Also, often overlooked by journalists and civil society, the emotional toll of leaving their homeland, coupled with the trauma of war and political repression, cannot be understated. Feelings of isolation, homesickness, and the psychological strain of adapting to new surroundings while worrying about loved ones back home add to their burdens.

Actionable strategies and solutions

A multifaceted approach is needed to address these challenges. First off, governments need to establish more accessible and expedited visa programs and asylum procedures specifically for journalists facing persecution. These policies should be transparent, clear, and sensitive to the unique risks journalists face.

Financial and legal support is crucial. Establishing funds to provide financial aid covering living expenses, legal fees, and costs associated with setting up journalistic ventures in new countries is vital. This support will help alleviate the immediate financial pressures faced by exiled journalists.

Mental health and social integration programs tailored for journalists in exile are necessary. These services should focus on trauma, cultural adjustment, and overcoming isolation, recognizing these needs as primary rather than secondary.

Professional training and resource provision will be instrumental in helping journalists adapt to new media environments and technologies. Media companies and NGOs should consider integrating exiled journalists into the existing media landscape, leveraging their expertise about their home countries and regions. Affirmative action-like programs for videographers and camera people could facilitate professional integration and provide new opportunities.

In conclusion, the support for exiled journalists should not only address their professional needs but also their personal well-being. Implementing these recommendations will significantly contribute to safeguarding the rights and futures of journalists who have made immense personal sacrifices for the pursuit of free and fair journalism. Governments, media entities, and civil societies play a crucial role in shaping a supportive environment for these journalists, ensuring their voices continue to be heard and their stories told.

This article is a part of the publication titled “In the Shadow of Two Palaces“