The 2017 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) scored Russia as 148 out of 180 countries across the world as a result of further state control over mass media. Although pockets of freedom of published expression exist – particularly though not exclusively through social media – Russia’s media is still pliant, suffers from self-censorship and lacks investigative zeal.
What is the role of media and journalism in Russia? How are Russian journalists most commonly recruited and what is the shape of their career trajectory? How do independent journalists understand freedom of media and how do they practice it?
Participants
Svetlana Pasti, Senior Researcher, Centre for Journalism, Media and Communication, University of Tampere
Chair: Bridget Kendall MBE, Diplomatic Correspondent, BBC (1998–2016)
Opening Remarks: Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, Shadow Foreign Secretary (2015-16)
