The Kyiv Independent’s Investigative Work Recognized with Ukrainian Journalism Award

May 29, 2025 – Ukraine – 

The Kyiv Independent has been honored with the 2025 Ukrainian journalism award, “Honor of the Profession,” for its investigative documentary, “He Came Back.” The film, produced by the outlet’s War Crimes Investigations Unit, delves into the issue of sexual violence committed by Russian soldiers in occupied Ukrainian territories. The documentary identifies specific perpetrators and highlights the systemic nature of these crimes. Following the film’s release, one of the identified soldiers was formally charged by Ukrainian authorities, marking a significant step toward accountability. Journalist Olesia Bida, who led the investigation, expressed that this recognition was the most meaningful of her career, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. The award ceremony took place in Kyiv on May 29, 2025.

In a separate but related investigation, The Kyiv Independent has also uncovered evidence of religious persecution in the city of Melitopol, located in the temporarily occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The investigative documentary, titled “No God But Theirs,” identifies Artem Sharlai as a key collaborator involved in the suppression of Ukrainian churches under Russian occupation. Sharlai, who heads the Department for Work with Religious Organizations in the Russian-controlled administration, is implicated in the closure and repurposing of church buildings for military use. The investigation sheds light on the broader pattern of religious repression affecting various Christian denominations in the region.

These investigations underscore The Kyiv Independent’s commitment to uncovering human rights violations and holding those responsible accountable, even amidst ongoing conflict. The recognition of their work through the “Honor of the Profession” award highlights the critical role of independent journalism in documenting and addressing war crimes and systemic abuses.

Reference – 

https://kyivindependent.com/the-kyiv-independent-wins-ukrainian-journalism-award-for-exposing-russian-soldiers-sexual-violence/

https://ground.news/article/kyiv-independent-journalists-identify-collaborators-involved-in-religious-persecution-in-melitopol