War Coverage by Ukrainian Journalists: Challenging Bias Misconceptions

October 28, 2024
How do emotions in war reporting enhance rather than undermine journalistic objectivity?
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In the context of Russia's war against Ukraine, one common criticism has emerged: Ukrainian journalists are too emotionally invested to provide objective coverage of the conflict. This assumption, however, demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of journalistic objectivity and the intricate relationship between emotional engagement and professional reporting.

Dr. Johana Kotišová, an Assistant Professor in Documentary and Journalism at the University of Amsterdam, explained to UkraineWorld how emotions can enhance journalism when covering sensitive topics like war. She also addressed the meaning of impartiality in war coverage and highlighted specificities of Ukrainian journalism during wartime.

Emotion and Objectivity: A False Dichotomy

Contrary to popular belief, objectivity in journalism does not equate to emotional detachment. True objectivity entails maintaining honesty, transparency, and using all available knowledge, whereas mindful emotional engagement enriches journalistic work.

The emotional response to war reporting is not unique to Ukrainian journalists. Foreign reporters working in Ukraine, as well as those who have relocated in the country or have other connections to the Ukraine, often experience similar levels of emotional engagement.

This dispels the myth that emotional investment is somehow uniquely or inevitably Ukrainian; the truth is far more nuanced.

While emotions can be deceptive, they more often serve as illuminating tools in journalism. Evidence indicates that emotional engagement usually improves reporting quality.

These emotions assist journalists in developing stronger relationships with sources, maintaining necessary empathy during interviews with trauma survivors, and cultivating greater sensitivity to historical and linguistic nuances. This emotional connection frequently results in more meticulous attention to facts and responsible reporting.

The key is emotional literacy and self-reflection. Understanding one's position and limitations helps journalists maintain objectivity. Those who recognise and understand their emotional responses tend to be more committed to factual accuracy and nuanced reporting.

Rethinking Impartiality in Times of War

When international law is violated and a nation faces existential threats, the concept of journalistic impartiality is called into question. Is it desirable, or even ethical, to remain impartial when a country faces an existential threat from a nuclear superpower?

The concept of impartiality emerged in peaceful contexts, specifically the need to separate journalism from political processes. However, when it comes to an invaded nation, traditional notions of impartiality may have to give way to the defence of fundamental universal values, human rights, and international humanitarian law.

Understanding Bias: Beyond Emotional Factors

The concept of bias requires careful examination in this context. It manifests two distinct forms. The first is an unavoidable bias resulting from our background, including gender, social class, ethnicity, and overall life experience.

These facets of our personalities shape how we all view the world. This inherent bias is natural and acceptable, as long as we remain aware of our position and perspective.

The second type is more problematic; it entails intentionally distorting situations by concealing or ignoring specific facts. Ideological differences or insufficient information frequently contribute to this type of bias.

However, it is key to recognise that emotional engagement does not always result in this detrimental form of bias. The assumption that emotions cause bias is incorrect; bias results from a lack of information and knowledge, not an emotional investment in a story. The link between emotions and biased reporting is arbitrary, at best.

Ukraine's Independent Media: Wartime Watchdogs of Democracy

Ukrainian journalists have demonstrated an outstanding feature: independent media demonstrates remarkable strength in its ability to inform about the war while also maintaining critical oversight of potential breaches, including those by government institutions.

This value-driven approach enables Ukrainian media to serve their community while maintaining professional independence. They inform the public about wartime realities while remaining vigilant against attempts to undermine democratic principles, demonstrating Ukrainian society's deep commitment to journalistic freedom and independence.

The Hidden Cost: Mental Health in War Journalism

Behind this commitment to truthful reporting lies an immense personal toll on journalists' mental health. While the full extent of this impact may not be known until after the war, previous data published by the Institute of Mass Information, as well as evidence collected by Dr. Kotišová, indicates that nearly all Ukrainian journalists can face mental health challenges.

The combined burden of professional stress and war trauma creates an overwhelming impact. The traditional challenges of journalism have intensified, with reporters now facing both emotional strain and physical danger while working without rest.

Dr. Johana Kotišová, an Assistant Professor in Documentary and Journalism at the University of Amsterdam
INTERVIEWED BY ANASTASIIA HERASYMCHUK, DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AT UKRAINEWORLD