03.03.2024 – Prague, Czech Republic
Marking Two Years: Ukrainian Journalist Dmytro Khyliuk Abducted by the Russian Army
The Platform of European Memory and Conscience (PEMC) expresses deep concern on the sombre second anniversary of Dmytro Khyliuk’s abduction by the Russian Army at the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Credit: IPN, Slawek Kasper
As the world observes the second anniversary of the tragic abduction of Ukrainian journalist Dmytro Khyliuk on the 3rd of March 2022, the Platform of European Memory and Conscience (PEMC) expresses profound concern over his continued unlawful and prolonged detention in a Russian penal facility and calls for the immediate release of the journalist and an end to the violations of his rights.
Our hearts go out to Dmytro’s family and colleagues, and we urgently call for international efforts to secure his immediate freedom. Dmytro Khyliuk, like numerous journalists who bravely seek the truth amid narratives dictated by those in power, has endured a heavy toll over the past two years – the loss of his own freedom. As long as Putin’s oppressive regime continues to uphold illegal practices and punishes individuals for fulfilling their professional duties, we must not tolerate delay or inaction. We must stand united in advocating for the release of journalists like Dmytro, who courageously pursue truth and justice in the face of adversity.
Marek Mutor, President of Platform of European Memory and Conscience, stated.
Dmytro Khyliuk, who is the recipient of the 2023 Award of PEMC for his exceptional courage and tireless advocacy for human rights and fundamental democratic values during the war in Ukraine caused by Russian aggression, remains in captivity.
On the 6th of December 2023, the PEMC Award was handed over to, in the absence of the actual recipient, his friend and fellow journalist of UNIAN, Tetiana Poliakovska. This gesture symbolises the recognition of Dmytro Khyliuk’s outstanding contributions to the cause of justice and his unwavering commitment to the principles that form the foundation of a free and just society.
On February 21, 2024, PEMC received a statement from Deputy Chief Editor of UNIAN Tetiana Urbanska:
The UNIAN correspondent Dmytro Khyliuk is a civilian kidnapped by the Russian military from his home in the Kyiv region and has been in Russian captivity for two years. All this time, the Russian Federation has not provided any information about Dmytro’s location and health status. All the attempts to find out this information made by relatives and colleagues are met with the indifferent silence from the Russian side. Unknown is the fate of the letter from Dmytro Khyliuk’s parents, which they tried to deliver to their son through representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross – the only organization that has unique powers to protect the victims of the international armed conflicts.
Therefore, we appeal to the ICRC, to the human rights organizations Reporters Without Borders, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, as well as others who stand on the defense of the international humanitarian law, to promote greater publicity of information about the illegal detention of the tens of thousands of the civilian hostages by the Russian Federation, including dozens of journalists, such as UNIAN correspondent Dmytro Khyliuk. The world should know more about them and do everything for their release.
Two years after the abduction
According to five witnesses interviewed by the international organisation “Reporters Without Borders” in 2022, the journalist was held in Novozybkovsky Pretrial Detention Facility No. 2, among 500 other Ukrainians. His official status is designated as a civilian hostage.
This sombre occasion is not only a poignant reminder of the perils faced by journalists and human rights defenders in conflict-ridden regions but also marks a devastating chapter for Dmytro Khyliuk’s family. Since the last letter dated April 2022, they have received no information about their beloved one, compounding the tragedy of his unjust detention.
In light of the recent death in the penal colony of Alexei Navalny, the most significant leader of the opposition in Russia, the illegal detention of Dmytro Khyliuk must be seen as indicative of the undoubtful and dreadful nature of the regime in Russia. The PEMC condemns such blatant violations of human rights and calls for immediate international attention and action to address these injustices.
Call for diplomatic efforts
As the world reflects on the tragic second anniversary of Dmytro Khyliuk’s abduction, the PEMC calls for renewed global efforts to ensure his freedom. We strongly advocate for the protection of journalists and reporters. They bravely venture into risky situations to uncover and report the truth. Without these dedicated individuals who diligently seek facts, justice, freedom, and equality would be greatly compromised.
The Platform of European Memory and Conscience remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving the memory of the past and promoting the values of democracy and human rights.
The Platform of European Memory and Conscience (PEMC) is a non-governmental organisation that unites 72 institutions and organisations from 24 countries globally. The organisation focuses on research, documentation, awareness raising, and education concerning the history of totalitarian regimes of the 20th century.
PEMC’s mission is dedicated to disseminating knowledge about the dark chapters of European history, specifically emphasising the atrocities perpetrated by totalitarian regimes. The overarching goal is to avert the recurrence of such crimes and contribute to establishing a more resilient and democratic Europe. By fostering dialogue and understanding, the PEMC aims to strengthen democratic values and promote a shared European memory.
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