Transformation of media narratives in the coverage of the activities of Ukraine’s security and defense sector
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17721/CIMC.2025.38.84-93Keywords:
media narrative, defense journalism, strategic communications, NATO, information security, war journalism, disinformationAbstract
The purpose of the article is to clarify the transformation of media narratives in covering the activities of Ukraine’s security and defense sector under conditions of Russian aggression. It traces the historical evolution of defense journalism — from Soviet traditions and the marginal status of military topics in the first decades of independence to the formation of a systemic model of wartime information support after 2014. Special attention is given to the period of the full-scale invasion in 2022, when journalism became a key element of the information front. The main media narratives of contemporary war journalism have been identified: heroization, memory journalism, international solidarity, and the narrative of resilience. Their role in mobilizing society, shaping historical memory, and attracting international support is revealed. The article analyzes the major challenges of the information environment: the spread of disinformation, the balance between freedom of speech and security needs, the influence of digital platforms, and the risks to journalists’ lives. The institutional and legal frameworks shaping cooperation between journalists and the security sector are examined, including the Doctrine of Information Security (2017), the Cybersecurity Strategy (2021), and the activities of the Center for Countering Disinformation. It is demonstrated that the practice of Ukrainian defense journalism is gradually approaching NATO standards in the field of StratCom and Public Affairs. Internal challenges to the integration of Ukrainian media into the Euro-Atlantic space are outlined — economic dependence, staff shortages, and the risk of excessive militarization of journalism. At the same time, prospects for development are defined: deepening cooperation with NATO, strengthening international partnerships, developing educational programs in war journalism, digital transformation, and updating ethical codes. It is concluded that the transformation of media narratives in the field of security and defense is not only a reflection of wartime challenges but also an important factor in Ukraine’s information policy and Euro-Atlantic integration.
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