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The Institute of Mass Information’s (IMI) network of Mediabaza hubs organised and hosted 786 training and networking events attended by 13,384 media workers from November 2022 through October 2026. The network’s database of event participants stands at 4,039 unique persons in total, reports national Mediabaza coordinator Pavlo Lisnychenko.

Over that time, the hubs’ premises were used as co-working spaces 9,098 times. Reporters with Ukrainian and foreign news organisations received safety gear and equipment there 894 times.

According to Pavlo Lisnychenko, over a few years the network has managed to unite media workers across Ukraine. They come to the hubs not only for training and professional meetings, but also to socialise with their colleagues and to work during blackouts.

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“People gather at our hubs to chat with colleagues, to work during unexpected blackouts, to rest, and to recharge their gadgets between current events. We conceived Mediabaza as a place where journalists could get help and support. And, as I see it, the more than 4,000 media workers who have worked with us over these years can confirm that the idea has worked out,” Lisnychenko said.

What are the Mediabazas

The Mediabazas are a network of 15 regional hubs created by the Institute of Mass Information to support the work of independent journalists amid Russia’s full-scale war on Ukraine.

The Mediabazas offer journalists a work space during blackouts, bulletproof vests and helmets, workshops, classes, and help in communication with local authorities. This list of services is not exhaustive as IMI’s regional hubs adapt their offerings in response to the needs of the media community in their respective regions.

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How to contact IMI’s Mediabazas

To join a Mediabaza event or lease equipment (safety gear or technology) free of charge, message the coordinator of your nearest Mediabaza on Facebook:

Please note:

  • Mediabaza Kherson only issues equipment;
  • Mediabaza Slovyansk offers equipment for filming, video and audiostreaming;
  • Mediabaza Chernivtsi has a studio for recording podcasts.

If necessary, contact the national Mediabaza coordinator Pavlo Lisnychenko via:

To lease safety gear, personal first aid kits or other equipment free of charge, contact the coordinator of your local Mediabaza or fill out the following form.