At the 32nd Lviv BookForum, a new collection titled “Free voices of Crimea” was presented, documenting the lives and struggles of Crimean journalists imprisoned for exposing repression in the occupied territory. The book brings their voices to life through letters, diaries, and court speeches, along with children’s messages that remind us of families left behind. This was reported by journalist ZMINA.
“Free voices of Crimea” features portraits of sixteen journalists and human rights defenders sentenced by Russia. Many of the heroes are Crimean Tatars, providing a historical context to the indigenous people's fight against repression.
Journalist and writer Rustem Khalilov noted during the presentation: “As journalists, we recognize the difficulty of maintaining the same level of coverage in Crimea, where individuals are arrested for the slightest criticism of the occupying authorities.”
Project coordinator Inna Bereznitska shared how children’s letters from political prisoners were included in the book. For instance, the daughter of Vladislav Yesipenko, Stefania, wrote: “I want Saint Nicholas to come and make my dream come true. I want my dad to be home.” Bereznitska emphasized that the letters and drawings of children add significant strength to the narratives, showcasing the lives awaiting the return of loved ones.
Journalist Alexandra Yefimenko from ZMINA, who worked as an independent correspondent in occupied Crimea, discussed the phenomenon of citizen journalism: “Citizen journalists come from various professions, including cooks, teachers, and builders. However, when the occupation began and repression started, they recognized the importance of honest information and began documenting searches and trials with political implications using their mobile phones.”
This publication is a collaborative initiative of the Ukrainian PEN, The Ukrainians Media, ZMINA Human Rights Center, and Vivat Publishing. The event was supported by the Publishers Forum and other organizations.
The book serves as a reminder that freedom of speech and human rights in the occupied peninsula remain under constant threat, and documenting these stories is a crucial step to ensure that the world does not forget those who are forced into silence.
Previously, ZMINA reported that the anthology “Free voices of Crimea” was among the most popular publications at this year’s XIII Book Arsenal, documenting the stories of Crimean political prisoners who fight for human rights and freedom of speech under occupation.
