Unverified footage of the conflict is rampant on social media. Misinformation is omnipresent and is perpetuated by both media organizations and governments themselves. This misinformation is detrimental to society and democracy.
The Russian incursion of Ukraine is not a special operation, it is an invasion and a war. The chaotic and disruptive nature of wars makes them hard to understand. It is up to reporters to put pieces of information together so that the public can be informed.
We have seen reporters valiantly step in the line of fire to give us a clear picture of the war. The bravery of these individuals is commendable. Reporters should never be targets in the war zone or in their offices. They should not face arbitrary killings or arrests.
The war against Ukraine is not being waged by the Russian people, but by the Russian government. This must be clear in reporting. Information can influence the reputation of a government and the pride of its people. Governments must show restraint when censoring information. Governments are not the overlords of truth.
We stand in solidarity with victims and all those who stand against this war. The media plays a key role in preventing actors from going too far. The media presence in the Ukrainian war and all wars must be sustained.
The media must not be used as a weapon of war. We call on the university community to exercise caution when consuming information.
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