Participants

Discussion

In the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the information space has become one of the main arenas of confrontation. Traditional media, and especially social networks, not only shape how events are described, but also influence how people understand and judge them.

During the panel, we will present findings from Ukrainian media research conducted over the past decade in relation to Russian aggression. We will look at how Russian media operate and how different strategies are used to counter information warfare.

Several key ethical and professional dilemmas arise here.

First, hate speech and the division into “us” and “them” are used to mobilize emotions. In wartime, this is often framed as justification for aggression, which in turn normalizes violence and dehumanizes the targeted group.

Second, Russian state rhetoric includes open calls for destroying Ukrainian identity, for example, through narratives of “denazification” or the “elimination” of Ukrainians as a group. These messages are spread both by official media and through social platforms, where ethical standards are ignored. Such rhetoric not only supports the war but also justifies war crimes.

Third, journalists face a difficult question: how to report on violence without repeating or reinforcing hateful language? In wartime, words matter even more, and journalists bear responsibility for their impact.

Finally, social media often remain outside ethical regulation. Influencers and bloggers do not see themselves as journalists and do not follow professional standards. As a result, the most aggressive and polarizing messages spread the fastest.

Thus, reconsidering journalistic ethics and recognizing social media as full participants in the media space are essential steps for responsible media practice today.