Description
The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv / EUR Bureau of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for Ukrainian media organizations and media outlets to carry out the program: Media Resilience and Recovery. The program will help to increase the resilience of Ukrainian media environment and support its recovery from Russian invasion. It also aims to provide local and international audiences with accurate reporting on events in Ukraine, counter disinformation, support reconstruction initiatives and journalism investigations, as well as benefit affected by war media professionals. The U.S. Embassy is welcoming proposals from all regions of Ukraine. However, the priority will be given to media outlets relocated from regions previously besieged by Russian troops, near the front line, or on de-occupied territories. Funded projects will сover, but will not be limited to the following areas: Provide recovery funds to relocated regional media or those returned to their hometowns after the liberation. The funds are aimed at resuming normal media operation, purchasing vital equipment, producing content and utilizing other platforms and formats that would help to target their audiences in the most effective ways. Counter disinformation through publishing verified information, especially about events in the combat zone, news from occupied territories and political developments in Ukraine. Debunk myths of Russian propaganda disseminated through messengers, anonymous Telegram, Viber channels and closed groups. Inform domestic and international audiences about events in the military zone. International reporting will be funded for media outlets with relevant experience, good outreach and transparent ownership. Conduct journalism investigations on the local government accountability, public budgets transparency and use of recovery funds, especially in the areas that already receive or might require a lot of foreign and national investments after the liberation. Support reconstruction initiatives through organizing press tours, investigating other countries or regions’ experiences and promoting solution journalism that might unite local community leaders, government authorities and media representatives around resolving the most critical for the region issues. Prevent professional burnout and trauma issues among media professionals, including war reporters and journalists, who continue to work near frontline, through providing psychological help during hotlines, trainings, workshops, etc. Support local and national projects aimed at making available information about Ukrainian culture and history to media outlets, enabling local audiences to understand better Ukraine’s national identity and the role of their region in it.