**The Kyiv Independent Hits 20,000 Paying Members: A Milestone in Independent Journalism**
The Kyiv Independent has achieved a significant milestone by reaching 20,000 paying members, making it the first Ukrainian media outlet to do so. This achievement is not just a number, but a testament to the power of independent journalism and the importance people around the world place on it.
**A Mission to Inform and Engage**
When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, the Kyiv Independent knew how crucial it was to keep its reporting free and accessible. The outlet’s mission has remained unchanged since then: to provide high-quality reporting from Ukraine to the world. In May, the Kyiv Independent launched a campaign to ensure that no matter what happens, it would be able to continue showing the threat Russia poses to the world.
**A Global Community Rises to the Occasion**
In less than one month, 2,400 people became new members of the Kyiv Independent community. Support came from more than 60 countries, with the highest number of new members joining from North America and Europe. To help members feel more connected, an updated interactive community map was unveiled, allowing over 700 people to add their pins and show where they’re supporting from.
**Community-Driven Journalism in Action**
Since its founding in late 2021, more than 50,000 people from over 130 countries have contributed financially to support the Kyiv Independent. In 2024, reader contributions accounted for 70% of revenue. This is a powerful reminder of what a committed community can do and how reader-funded journalism can thrive, even in the hardest conditions.
**A Testimony to Journalism’s Power**
The journey to 20,000 paying members took the Kyiv Independent 3.5 years and thousands of hours of work by talented individuals. Zakhar Protsiuk, COO of The Kyiv Independent, said: “These twenty thousand people are our secret power that allows us to do our work and grow.” This achievement belongs to all those who joined, gifted a membership, or shared the campaign.
**The Future of Journalism**
This milestone is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when journalism is powered by community. The team at the Kyiv Independent is incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this achievement. As we look to the future, it’s clear that community-driven journalism has a vital role to play in informing and engaging people around the world.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
