Statement by the International Association of Press Clubs on World Press Freedom Day 2025

Global Solidarity with Journalists Under Threat: Honoring the Legacy of Victoria Roshchyna

At a time when the role of journalism is more vital than ever, we stand in unwavering solidarity with journalists around the world who risk their lives to tell people the truth, even against those in power.

Today, on World Press Freedom Day, we honor the memory of Ukrainian journalist Victoria Roshchyna, whose tragic death underscores the increasing dangers faced by reporters working in conflict zones and under authoritarian regimes.

Victoria Roshchyna, a 27-year-old independent Ukrainian journalist known for her courageous frontline reporting during Russia’s war against Ukraine, was captured by the Russians in August 2023, imprisoned, tortured, starved and murdered in September 2024. Her mutilated body with missing organs – the brain, eyeballs and part of the trachea – was returned home from Russia a few days ago.

As attacks on press freedom intensify in many parts of the world, we reaffirm our commitment to protect and support journalists who are targeted simply for doing their jobs. From Belarus to China, Gaza, Myanmar, Russia, Israel, Vietnam, Egypt, Turkey, Eritrea, Iran, Azerbaijan and many other places around the world, reporters have been harassed, detained and even killed for their work, courage and integrity.

We call on the international community to hold accountable those who suppress freedom of speech and to defend the rights of journalists everywhere.

Victoria Roshchyna’s bravery must not be forgotten. Her dedication to truth and justice lives on as a beacon for all who believe in a free and independent press.

We remember. We honor. We stand in solidarity.

May 3, 2025