Washington Honors Ukrainian Journalist Viktoriya Roshchyna Posthumously with Courage Award

Honoring the Legacy of Viktoriya Roshchyna

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: In Washington, Ukrainian journalist Viktoriya Roshchyna was posthumously awarded the prestigious OXI Courage Award by the Washington OXI Day Foundation. Viktoriya tragically lost her life while held captive by Russian forces. At the ceremony, American journalist Simon Shuster delivered a moving speech celebrating her bravery and read a message from her father, Volodymyr Roshchyn. Unfortunately, Volodymyr was unable to attend due to recent health issues following a heart attack.

The Tragic Story of Viktoriya Roshchyna

Viktoriya had gone to report from territory temporarily occupied by Russian forces when all contact was lost in August. Russia officially acknowledged in May that she was detained in captivity. Her death in Russian custody was confirmed on October 10. During her imprisonment, Viktoriya was held in at least two facilities: Correctional Colony No. 77 in Berdyansk and Detention Center No. 2 in Taganrog, notorious for harsh conditions endured by Ukrainian detainees. Her body was finally returned to Ukraine at the end of February.

On May 27, it was revealed that Viktoriya suffered systematic torture in Taganrog’s detention center, including a fractured occipital bone. She had contributed to hromadske, and later published work in Ukrainska Pravda and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, as well as collaborating with Ukrainian Radio, UA: Pershyi, and Censor.net. In July, a petition signed by nearly 800 people was submitted to the Office of the President requesting Viktoriya be awarded the title Hero of Ukraine. In October, the Verkhovna Rada reiterated its appeal to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to grant her this honor posthumously. This initiative is supported by her family and media colleagues.

'We cannot allow the truth to die in captivity,' Volodymyr Roshchyn emphasized, underscoring the importance of preserving his daughter's memory.

Simon Shuster reflected on Viktoriya’s courage, stating, 'She needed to witness the occupation firsthand. She had to share this reality with the world.' Her father highlighted her commitment to journalism, saying, 'She wrote that true happiness for her was living not only for herself but to help others. That was her happiness.'

This award highlights the critical importance of recognizing journalists’ work, especially amid war where danger is constant for those exposing the truth. Honoring Viktoriya Roshchyna with the OXI Courage Award also draws attention to the need to remember victims of violence and repression during conflicts, as well as the vital support for their families. Acknowledging her sacrifice serves as inspiration to continue defending human rights and freedom of expression in Ukraine and beyond.

In light of Viktoriya Roshchyna's profound impact on journalism and her ultimate sacrifice, the Ukrainian Parliament has taken significant steps to honor her legacy. Recently, they urged President Zelensky to posthumously bestow upon her the esteemed title of Hero of Ukraine. This initiative, backed by her family and colleagues, underscores the vital role she played in reporting the truth amidst adversity. For more details on this important appeal, visit the latest developments regarding her honor.