Timur Shafir, secretary of the Union of Russian Journalists, weighed in on a statement by Vladimir Pozner, a TV presenter, about the role of Russian journalists in public discourse. Pozner described a pattern of misinformation and propaganda among some reporters and, in doing so, described himself as a former propagandist. Shafir noted that Pozner’s description of the profession carries ethical concerns and should be considered carefully given the responsibilities involved in journalism.
The Journalists’ Union opted not to issue an official reaction to the matter, but Shafir offered his perspective. He suggested that Pozner’s sweeping claim about all journalists being corrupt or simply engaged in propaganda is itself an ethical issue, if not a provocative generalization. Shafir pointed out that Pozner has publicly acknowledged prior roles in media organizations where propaganda messaging was a feature, describing Pozner’s past work within Soviet era media structures as central to his commentary on propaganda today. The Union secretary emphasized that, in those historical contexts, media outlets often served state objectives and messaging campaigns rather than independent reporting.
Shafir also commented on the way Pozner characterized the broader journalist community as adopting a harsh moral judgment. He argued that such statements risk stigmatizing a diverse field that includes many colleagues who are actively reporting under challenging conditions. He stressed that the portrayal of Russian journalists in uniformly negative terms is not only unfair but also disregards the persistent efforts of professionals who continue to pursue accuracy and accountability under difficult circumstances. Shafir noted that Pozner had received state honors in the past, including the highest journalism distinctions, highlighting the complex relationship between recognition and contemporary critique within the industry.
Pozner recently offered critique of the work of Russian journalists during a conference hosted by an online educational platform. The event brought together professionals and students to discuss media ethics, the responsibilities of reporters, and the standards that guide factual reporting in today’s information landscape.
During a follow up statement, Pozner expressed strong personal remorse about the state of the profession in the Russian Federation. He criticized what he sees as pervasive misrepresentation and propaganda presented as fact. While acknowledging his own atheistic views, Pozner suggested that if there is any form of consequence to be faced for the current state of journalism, it should be measured by the standards of truth and accountability rather than by generalized accusations. The remarks highlighted a tension between self critique by a prominent figure in media and the broader reaction from peers who answer to a different set of professional expectations.