**Ukrainian Media Outlets Demand True Story Festival Changes**
A group of Ukrainian media professionals and civil society organizations are calling for changes to the program at this year’s True Story Festival in Bern, Switzerland. The festival, which takes place from June 20-22, is an annual event that brings together journalists from around the world to share their investigative stories.
The issue lies with the sections of the program related to the Russian-Ukrainian war. According to a joint statement issued by Ukrainian media organizations, at least five representatives from Russia are scheduled to speak at the festival. These individuals will be discussing topics related to the war that has been ongoing between Ukraine and Russia since 2014.
However, the statement notes that no Ukrainian journalists have been included in the program. This lack of representation is seen as a significant concern by the signatories, including the Institute of Mass Information. They are calling for the festival organizers to include Ukrainian journalists in the program and remove some Russian speakers from the lineup.
**A Lack of Representation**
The issue of unequal representation on the festival’s program has sparked debate among media professionals and experts. Some have pointed out that the festival’s focus on investigative journalism makes it all the more important to ensure a diverse range of voices are represented, especially when discussing sensitive topics like war.
“The fact that Ukrainian journalists are entirely absent from the program is unacceptable,” said one expert, who wished to remain anonymous. “The True Story Festival should be a platform for all sides of the story to be told, not just those with a vested interest in promoting a particular narrative.”
**A Call for Change**
The joint statement issued by Ukrainian media organizations has sparked calls for change within the festival’s organizing committee. While it remains to be seen whether their demands will be met, one thing is clear: the issue of representation on the True Story Festival program has brought attention to an important debate in the world of journalism.
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