During the 32nd Lviv BookForum in Lviv, a new anthology titled "Free voices of Crimea" was presented, documenting the lives of Crimean journalists who have become political prisoners due to their work. This book conveys their experiences through letters, diaries, and court documents, and includes children's messages that remind us of the families waiting for their loved ones.

The collection consists of stories from sixteen journalists and human rights defenders condemned by Russia to lengthy prison terms. Most of them are Crimean Tatars, and the book provides a deep historical context of their struggle against repression.

Journalist Rustem Khalilov emphasized the importance of the information field in Crimea, noting that journalists face significant challenges in their work due to repression.

Project coordinator Inna Bereznitska shared how children's letters are used in the anthology, particularly one from the daughter of Vladislav Yesipenko, expressing a wish for her father to return home. These letters add a unique emotional strength to the project.

Alexandra Yefimenko, a journalist from ZMINA, spoke about the role of citizen journalists during the occupation, who, despite the risks, continue to document essential information.

This initiative is carried out with the participation of the Ukrainian PEN, The Ukrainians Media, ZMINA Human Rights Center, and Vivat publishing house. The event took place with the support of the Publishers Forum and other partners.

The book underscores the importance of freedom of speech and human rights, stressing the need to document these stories so that the world does not forget those who are being silenced.

Previously, ZMINA reported that the anthology "Free voices of Crimea" made it to the list of the most popular books at this year's Book Arsenal, confirming the relevance of the topic.