THE ROLE OF JOURNALISM IN INFORMATION WARFARE: THE CASE OF UKRAINE

Abstract

This article is dedicated to the study of the role of journalism in the context of information warfare, using the Ukrainian experience as a case study, with a focus on its significance in countering disinformation and strengthening the national information space. The aim of the research is to analyze the functional importance of journalism in shaping a patriotic narrative, documenting war crimes, combating disinformation, and substantiating the strategic potential of media as a tool for protecting national interests. The methodology is based on the analysis of reports, investigations, and documentary materials produced by Ukrainian and international media outlets.The study includes a qualitative analysis of war-related content and an assessment of its impact on public opinion.The findings indicate that Ukrainian journalism has transformed from neutral reporting to strategic communication, fulfilling the function of countering enemy propaganda through fact-checking, debunking fake news, and fostering information hygiene within society. Journalists have become chroniclers of the war, documenting war crimes and thereby contributing to the evidentiary base for future international tribunals. Frontline reports from cities such as Bakhmut, Mariupol, and Izium create emotionally engaging portrayals of defenders, thus promoting societal cohesion. Investigative journalism, particularly through projects like Bihus.Info and Nashi Groshi (Our Money), exposes corruption and abuse, reinforcing public trust in state institutions. The practical value of this research lies in offering recommendations to enhance the role of media during information warfare, including through partnerships with international organizations for the documentation of crimes. It also highlights the significance of journalism in supporting the psychological resilience of society. The scientific novelty of the study lies in its comprehensive analysis of the transformation of journalism under wartime conditions, emphasizing its role as an instrument of historical memory and justice. This is the first study to systematically classify the contribution of Ukrainian media to the fight against disinformation and the documentation of war crimes. The article emphasizes the unique role of personalized war reporting in shaping national identity.