Freedom of speech is not only the right to speak — it is a daily responsibility for the truth. Especially when a country is fighting for its existence, for democratic values, and for its future.
On November 6 in Madrid, the 20minutos Awards ceremony took place — an annual event honoring individuals, organizations, and communities that make a significant contribution to the development of society, culture, innovation, and freedom of expression. This year, the media organization also celebrates its 25th anniversary.
A special distinction for advancing independent media in Ukraine was awarded to Oksana Brovko, Director of the Association of Independent Regional Press Publishers of Ukraine (AIRPPU).
The award was presented by King Felipe VI of Spain, who highlighted her personal contribution to strengthening the resilience of Ukrainian media and defending freedom of expression during wartime.
— The values and work carried out by Oksana Brovko under such difficult circumstances are truly remarkable. She continues her mission with unwavering dedication, ensuring that vital information reaches all citizens — not only in Ukraine, but also the world, telling her country’s story. In February 2020, it will be four years since the start of this war, and I cannot imagine how hard it must be — not only because of the war itself, of course, but also because of the complexity of the situation — to keep working in the media field. We know that journalism suffers greatly in wartime — not only the truth as a concept, but journalists themselves, at every level. We honor Oksana Brovko for her courage and perseverance, for her fight for freedom, and for her fight for her country —Ukraine, — said the King during the ceremony.
Spanish colleagues noted that this award recognizes Oksana Brovko’s personal role in building a network of independent regional media that continue to operate despite shelling, blackouts, and loss. Their work remains a vital source of truthful information for local communities — a symbol of professional solidarity and the enduring resilience of Ukrainian journalism.
Organizers emphasized that the 20minutos Award is designed to honour those who strengthen trust, openness, and humanity in society — even at times when hearing the truth is harder than ever, and every voice becomes extraordinarily important and valuable.
It was precisely this truth, its cost and meaning, that Oksana Brovko spoke about from the stage of Teatro Real. Her words transformed the ceremony into a shared space of support and understanding — among journalists, among countries, among people who know that freedom of expression is never free, and that it is worth fighting for.
— This award is meaningful for the entire team of the Association, which tirelessly works to develop regional independent media. And for us, it is incredibly significant that our work is effective, useful and recognised even in Spain. This award belongs to everyone who continues to believe that words matter more than fear. We all fight for the right to truth during war, — commented Oksana Brovko.
This recognition reaffirms Spain’s consistent support for Ukraine — not only on the political and humanitarian fronts, but now also in the sphere of media freedom. The award stands as further proof of the importance of the bonds between our societies — built on shared values of democracy, truth, and human dignity.
— We may not have large offices or big budgets. But we have one another. We have conviction and faith that journalism still has the power to change lives, concluded Oksana Brovko, Director of the AIRPU.
More about the event and Oksana Brovko’s speech in Madrid — coming soon.
