A Lifeline for Ukrainian Journalism

The Stronger Together program, a partnership between WAN-IFRA, Norway’s Mediebedriftenes Landsforening (MBL), and the Association of Independent Regional Publishers of Ukraine (AIRPPU), has emerged as a critical support system for 40 Ukrainian media outlets throughout 2025. This initiative isn’t simply about financial aid; it’s a holistic approach encompassing training, mentorship, and crucial peer exchange opportunities.

The program’s impact is particularly evident in the surge of investigative journalism. Teams supported by Stronger Together have already produced over 50 investigative stories in just five months – a testament to the growing capacity and influence of participating newsrooms. This rapid output underscores a fundamental shift: Ukrainian media are actively shaping the narrative, holding power accountable, and providing essential information to their communities during a time of unprecedented challenge.

Beyond investigative reporting, Stronger Together is investing in the future of Ukrainian journalism through leadership development. The Women in News (WIN) Ukraine Leadership Accelerator is nearing completion, having empowered 14 women journalists with enhanced skills in leadership, strategy, and editorial management. This focus on women in leadership is crucial for building a more diverse and resilient media landscape.

The Ukraine Media Congress: Innovation in the Face of Adversity

The XIV Ukraine Media Congress, held in Lviv, brought together over 130 representatives from regional Ukrainian media to strategize the future of local journalism. The prevailing sentiment wasn’t one of mere survival, but of active innovation. Outlets are exploring new formats, developing alternative revenue models, and prioritizing community-driven reporting to maintain relevance. What innovative approaches are Ukrainian media employing to connect with their audiences amidst the ongoing conflict?

Discussions centered on practical solutions, including monetization strategies, digital content creation, building audience trust, and leveraging artificial intelligence for both journalism and fact-checking. The Congress highlighted the fundamental role of regional media in wartime Ukraine – documenting events, clarifying complex realities, and upholding democratic values. This transformation underscores their crucial function as a community service built on trust and solidarity.

Further insights from the Congress can be found here: Key takeaways from the XIV Media Congress, Award-winning regional media, and Oksana Brovko’s speech at the Congress.

Global Collaboration: Lessons from Copenhagen

A delegation of 16 senior women journalists from the Stronger Together (WIN) Ukraine Leadership Accelerator program participated in the WAN-IFRA Newsroom Summit in Copenhagen, gaining valuable insights into the evolving landscape of journalism. The summit focused on the integration of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, into newsroom workflows. Participants explored strategies for engaging younger audiences, defining media brands, and driving subscription models.

A key takeaway from the visit to JP/Politiken Media Group was their successful transition from a traditional print model to a digitally-focused operation. The Ukrainian delegation learned how data analytics can be used to track reader engagement and optimize content for online platforms. This exchange of knowledge is vital for strengthening the long-term sustainability of independent media in Ukraine.

More details on the Copenhagen visit can be found here: Norwegian media’s success with algorithms, Politiken’s approach to youth engagement, and Lessons in leadership and transformation.

Looking Ahead: Sustained Collaboration for a Stronger Future

As Stronger Together enters its second year, the program is expanding its focus to include structured international partnerships between Ukrainian and Norwegian media. Four long-term media exchanges will pair outlets, fostering peer mentoring, editorial innovation, and business development. These partnerships, involving reciprocal visits and ongoing mentorship, aim to ensure sustained collaboration and knowledge transfer, ultimately strengthening independent journalism and media resilience across borders. How will these long-term partnerships contribute to the long-term sustainability of independent Ukrainian media?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the primary goal of the Stronger Together program?

  The primary goal is to bolster independent journalism in Ukraine by providing funding, training, mentorship, and fostering collaboration between Ukrainian and international media outlets.

• How many Ukrainian media outlets have benefited from the Stronger Together program?

  Throughout 2025, the program has supported 40 Ukrainian media outlets, providing them with resources to navigate the challenges of reporting during wartime.

• What role does the Women in News (WIN) Ukraine Leadership Accelerator play in this initiative?

  The WIN Ukraine Leadership Accelerator empowers women journalists with enhanced leadership, strategic, and editorial management skills, contributing to a more diverse and resilient media landscape.

• What kind of investigative journalism has been supported by the program?

  The program has supported the production of over 50 investigative stories in local and regional media within five months, focusing on issues of corruption and accountability.

• What are the plans for the second year of the Stronger Together program?

  Year two will focus on establishing long-term media exchanges between Ukrainian and Norwegian outlets, fostering sustained collaboration and knowledge transfer.