The 10th Festival of Ideas in Kyiv
On September 12, 2026, Kyiv hosted the 10th Festival of Ideas, organized by the Eastern SOS Charitable Foundation. This year’s event centered on breaking through the information blockade affecting Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories (TOT) and exploring secure ways to maintain contact with residents living under occupation. Since its inception in 2017 in Sievierodonetsk, the Festival has evolved from a regional gathering into a nationwide platform attracting civil society leaders, government officials, media representatives, veterans, and activists to discuss pressing challenges.
Panel Discussion Highlights
A key panel titled "Behind the Iron Curtain: Strategies to Reach People in Occupied Areas" brought together experts who examined the difficulties in communicating with individuals living in these regions. They noted a decline in direct messages from TOT residents to media chatbots, with more people now reaching out through relatives still inside the occupied zones. The Eastern Variant team plays a vital role by relaying crucial information about evacuation procedures, volunteer contacts, human rights support, and other essential updates via family members.
In addition, Eastern Variant produces materials addressing evacuation conditions, assistance upon arrival in Ukrainian-controlled areas, document restoration, and practical guidance for those affected. Panelists stressed the importance of regularly disseminating information about available aid through multiple communication channels to ensure it reaches those in need.
Olena Fetisova emphasized, "It’s essential to consistently repeat information about such support opportunities across various platforms."
Participants also discussed how 2026 has brought changes in the security risks related to reporting on resistance efforts within occupied territories compared to 2022, especially concerning surveillance capabilities. Media outlets must carefully assess the dangers of publishing images of flyers, inscriptions, and other forms of nonviolent protest. Coverage of occupied areas remains crucial for shaping perceptions among Ukrainians living under government control.
Valeria Krupoderia highlighted the significance of informational efforts, stating, "Our goal is to encourage and facilitate departures from occupation."
The Festival of Ideas continues to serve as a vital forum for exchanging insights and strategies aimed at improving conditions in temporarily occupied regions of Ukraine.
Bringing together experts from diverse sectors, the Festival underscores the complexity and urgency of information work amid occupation. With direct communication from TOT diminishing, the reliance on alternative communication channels grows, demanding the dedication of volunteers and human rights defenders. This not only reflects humanitarian concerns but also highlights the resilience needed to uphold human rights and maintain connections with occupied communities.