A Conversation with Dimitry Muratov 

These pictures were found on the internet and depict Dmitry Muratov. 

In February of 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. At this time, I was still determining where Ukraine and Russia would go proceeding with this event. So much information was being spread about the situation, but not everyone was clear on the historical context of the conflict or what was happening. That is why I elected to attend this event. Dimitry Muratov is a Russian journalist and editor-in-chief of a newspaper in Russia. Dimitry was a vocal advocate for the freedom of the independent press and vocal about his observations about abuses of power seen in Russia. Muratov’s paper is a pro-democracy newspaper that reports on government corruption, discusses the violation of human rights, maintains strength as it expresses opinions freely, and seeks to diminish the perpetuation of propaganda by Russian governmental elites. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 2021 for continuing freedom of expression even under unideal circumstances. He continued to showcase his bravery, kindness, and compassion when he auctioned off his Nobel Peace Prize and donated all of the proceeds to UNICEF; 70% of this donation, which occurred shortly after the invasion of Russia in Ukraine, was given to Ukrainian refugee children and 30% was provided to children in other poor countries. Although, at times, his work for the newspaper was halted due to government interference, he continued to report even though he put himself and his company in danger. His newspaper was shut down and six of his journalists were murdered while in pursuit of discussing pressing matters of human rights abuse. All of the content from his newspaper is accessible everywhere except places controlled by the Russian press. 

During his speech, Muratov outlined the fact that the Russian government has continuously threatened him because he reported on the government corruption seen in Russia. Although he spoke openly about his experience running his pro-democracy newspaper and his interactions with the Russian government, he was still careful about what he said. Muratov discussed the historical context of the Russia-Ukraine relationship and emphasized the importance of understanding the historical implications of the dynamic. After discussing the historical context of the situation, he explained what the current state of the conflict is in. He discussed how Russia is using military force and political influence to control the press in Russia and the interactions between Russia and Ukraine. Muratov also offered solutions, based on his opinions, on how to move forward with this conflict. His solutions were insightful and required external intervention and assistance. 

This speech was extremely impactful and inspirational because it informed me about the current situation in Ukraine, explained the historical context of the situation, and reminded me of how I can take individual action. Dimitry Muratov is inspiring because he continues to defend what he believes even when the odds are stacked against him. Muratov believed in freedom, peace, democracy, and the protection of human rights and human rights. Muratov continues to put his life in danger so that the truth of the conflict is revealed and so he can save the lives of innocent people.