Stronger Together: Year of Growth & Momentum
Ukrainian Media Show Resilience, Innovation One Year Into Support Program
KYIV, Ukraine - Despite the ongoing war, independent media outlets across Ukraine are demonstrating notable progress in investigative journalism, collaboration, and sustainability, thanks to the “Stronger together” program.The initiative, a partnership between WAN-IFRA, norway’s The National Association of Media Companies (MBL), and the Association of Independent Regional Publishers of Ukraine (AIRPPU), has supported 40 Ukrainian media organizations through funding, training, and mentorship throughout 2025.
The program’s impact is especially visible in the surge of investigative reporting. Participating newsrooms have produced over 50 investigative stories in the last five months alone, showcasing a growing capacity for in-depth reporting. This coincides with the nearing completion of the Women in News (WIN) Ukraine Leadership Accelerator, which has empowered 14 journalists with enhanced leadership skills.
Regional media Innovating Despite Challenges
The XIV Ukraine Media Congress, held in Lviv, highlighted the innovative spirit of regional media. over 130 participants gathered to discuss strategies for survival and growth, focusing on new formats, revenue models, and community-focused reporting. The congress emphasized that regional media are not simply surviving, but actively adapting to the challenges of wartime.
Key discussion points at the Ukraine Media Congress:
* monetization strategies: Exploring diverse revenue streams beyond traditional advertising.
* Digital Content Creation: Adapting to changing audience consumption habits.
* Audience Trust: building and maintaining credibility in a challenging information habitat.
* Investigative Reporting: Strengthening capacity for uncovering corruption and holding power accountable.
* AI Integration: Utilizing artificial intelligence for journalism and fact-checking.
The event underscored the critical role regional media play in documenting events, clarifying realities, and upholding democratic values during the war. They serve as a vital community service, built on trust and solidarity.
Program Highlights & Investigative Output
The “Stronger Together” program’s success is also reflected in the participation of WIN Ukraine Leadership Accelerator delegates at the WAN-IFRA Newsroom Summit in Copenhagen, fostering cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Here’s a snapshot of the investigative work produced through the program (as of late 2025):
| Area of Investigation | number of Stories Published |
|---|---|
| Corruption | 18 |
| War Crimes | 12 |
| Local Governance | 15 |
| Human Rights Violations | 5 |
| Total | 50+ |
– ahmedhassan
The resilience of Ukrainian media is truly remarkable. This program isn’t just about providing financial support; it’s about investing in the skills and leadership needed to navigate an incredibly complex and risky environment. The focus on regional media is particularly vital,as these outlets are often the primary source of information for local communities and play a crucial role in holding local authorities accountable. The integration of AI discussions also demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the need to adapt to evolving technologies while maintaining journalistic integrity. The sheer volume of investigative stories produced in such a short timeframe is a testament to the program’s effectiveness and the dedication of Ukrainian journalists.
The ”Stronger Together” program demonstrates a commitment to supporting independent journalism in Ukraine, providing a vital lifeline for truth and accountability during a time of crisis. The program’s continued success will be crucial in ensuring that Ukrainian citizens have access to reliable information and that those in power are held accountable for their actions.