Solidarity, safety and journalism: Collaboration between Ukrainian and Kosovar journalists in times of war

Abstract

This paper discusses the issues of safety and solidarity of journalists for journalists in a cooperative project where Ukrainian journalists fled to Kosovo at the time of war in Ukraine. Through international non-governmental mediation, several journalists have moved to Kosovo after the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 to continue the work of reporting from Kosovo. This is done with the help of journalist peers in Kosovo. The political situation is not favorable for journalists in Ukraine, also considered the fact that Ukraine has not recognized Kosovo as a sovereign state, but this provides a political opportunity to extend this solidarity in political spectrum as well. Interviewed journalists claim that this “functional solidarity” is essential in media development and aid in the future and is a new way to look at safety of journalists. The altruistic solidarity of journalists for journalists also has its culprits of political consequences such as being part of political agendas to try and develop political bridges at the times of war. Findings such as willingness to extend help, planning for solidarity and joint interactions will further advance studies on safety of journalists and reflect on best practices of solidarity among journalists for the future endeavors of similar nature. The role of existing institutions such as journalist associations and international non-government organization are explored as well, defining their role in the process. Ukrainian journalists are in Kosovo to reveal this story of unusual collaboration.