My Undesirable Friends: The Impact of Russia's Invasion on Independent Journalism

The invasion has resulted in a significant deterioration of press freedom in Russia, with many independent outlets being banned or forced to operate in exile. The documentary “My Undesirable Friends,” directed by Julia Loktev, focuses on the experiences of journalists from TV Rain, the last independent news channel in Russia, as they navigate the dangers of their profession while facing government repression. The film captures the personal and professional dilemmas these journalists encounter, emphasizing their commitment to truth-telling in a climate of fear and censorship. Meanwhile, RIMA aims to preserve the work of these journalists, providing a crucial resource for future research and documentation of independent Russian journalism, which is at risk of being erased by the state.

The Role of RIMA

The Russian Independent Media Archive (RIMA) was established by exiled journalists and activists to safeguard over two decades of independent journalism. With more than 6 million documents from 98 outlets, RIMA serves as a vital repository for those who may no longer access independent news sources due to government censorship. Co-founder Anna Nemzer expressed the urgency of this project, noting the significant number of journalists who have fled the country or been imprisoned since the invasion.

The Documentary’s Insight

“My Undesirable Friends” provides an intimate look at the lives of journalists branded as “foreign agents” by the Russian government. The film highlights their daily struggles, including the constant threat of arrest and the moral dilemmas they face regarding whether to stay and fight for a free press or to leave the country for safety. Through personal stories and candid moments, the documentary illustrates the resilience and bravery of these journalists as they continue to report the truth amidst oppressive circumstances.

Conclusion

Both the archive and the documentary underscore the critical importance of independent journalism in the face of authoritarianism. They serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by journalists who strive to uphold freedom of expression and the challenges they encounter in a rapidly deteriorating media landscape. The ongoing efforts to document and preserve independent voices in Russia are essential not only for historical record but also for the future of journalism in the country.