Published on 26 June 2026
For the Kyiv Institute for European Integration, freedom of speech and a transparent press are foundational pillars of a democratic European future. No organization embodies these values quite like the Kyiv Independent. From its dramatic inception to its current role as a globally recognized news source, this English-language publication has proven that independent journalism can thrive even under the most arduous conditions.
Born from a fight for editorial independence
The story of the Kyiv Independent is rooted in resistance against censorship. In November 2021, the owner of the Kyiv Post—then a leading English-language newspaper in Ukraine—attempted to take full control of the newsroom to end its critical coverage of Ukrainian authorities (1). Rather than compromising their journalistic integrity, a group of dedicated reporters and editors chose to walk away.
Instead of letting the independent English-language voice of Ukraine fade, the fired team launched their own platform. Partnering with Jnomics, an international media consultancy with Ukrainian roots, they built a new publication from the ground up to serve as a bridge between Ukraine and the world.
Reporting through the invasion
The timing of their launch tested the team immediately. Just three months after the newsroom was founded, the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine began on 24 February 2022. Despite the immediate danger, the journalists stayed in their country to document the war on the ground.
Their uncompromising and accurate reporting quickly established them as a lifeline of information for the international community. Since the start of the full-scale war, the team has published more than 150 field reports from front-line locations such as Bakhmut, Avdiivka, and Vovchansk (1). Furthermore, the newsroom established a specialized War Crimes Investigations Unit in March 2023, which has already produced 12 documentaries uncovering undeniable evidence of systemic atrocities (1).
A community-powered newsroom
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Kyiv Independent is its business model. While many media outlets rely on wealthy owners or external corporate financing, this organization serves its readers and community alone. They operate entirely without a paywall, ensuring that critical information remains freely accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
Instead of traditional funding structures, they rely heavily on their readership. In 2024, 70% of the publication’s revenue came directly from membership subscriptions and reader donations (1). Today, they are supported by a vibrant community of more than 29,000 active members (1). By maintaining financial sustainability through reader support, the newsroom ensures that no outside influence can dictate its editorial policy.
Shaping the European future of Ukraine
As Ukraine continues its path toward European integration, institutions built on transparency, accountability, and truth are more vital than ever. The Kyiv Independent has grown from a core group of 18 defiant journalists into a dynamic organization of over 90 professionals, reaching almost 3 million readers every month in 2025 (1).
Their work has earned over 25 prestigious awards, including the 2025 Freedom Fighter Award and an Online Journalism Award for Innovation in Revenue Strategy (1). They stand as a testament to the resilience of Ukrainian civil society and the unyielding demand for a free press. For anyone looking to understand Ukraine’s present and its European future, the Kyiv Independent remains an essential voice.
References:
(1) The Kyiv Independent – About Us. Available at: https://kyivindependent.com/about/
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