A champion of independent journalism in war torn Ukraine, Olga Rudenko, editor-in-chief of the Kyiv Independent, will give this year’s prestigious Cudlipp Lecture in London.

At a time when journalism worldwide is under attack from misinformation and censorship, often at the hands of the State, Ms Rudenko has been a torch-bearer for free speech and independent reporting throughout the year-long invasion of Ukraine by Putin’s Russia.

The lecture, hosted by the London Press Club and chaired by the Daily Mirror, will address 'The Battle for the Truth. Hard choices on the frontline with the Kyiv Independent.’

Ms Rudenko, who was nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize and winner the Women of Europe award in the Woman in Action category in December, said:

“The experience of being a journalist in Ukraine as my country has been fighting for its survival has put to test everything I knew about journalism. It made me ask myself hard questions and be brutally honest with myself when looking for answers. I am grateful to have a chance to share my insights from this year via the Hugh Cudlipp Lecture.”

Alison Phillips, editor of the Daily Mirror and chair of the Cudlipp Trust, said:

“We are delighted Olga has agreed to give the Cudlipp lecture this year. We look forward to hearing her on the ground insight into the importance of high-quality journalism during a time of war against an aggressor which refuses to accept freedom of the press.”

Doug Wills, chair of London Press Club, said: “The Press Club is proud and excited at the prospect of hearing from Olga, an editor who is on the journalistic front line of a devastating war that has monopolised the news agenda. We are grateful to Olga for agreeing to present the prestigious Cudlipp lecture.”

The 2023 Hugh Cudlipp Memorial Lecture