The definition of "news deserts" originated in media studies in the United States in the early 2000s, when the number of local dailies first declined significantly amid the rise of digital first media. News deserts are communities that do not receive enough verified information about local issues and events. In Ukraine this issue increased since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. In our research we attempted to identify those places where the healthy development of the democratic system is threatened by the absence of local media outlets. With a deeper understanding of the news deserts derived from MDF's recent report, this panel delves into pragmatic responses to these challenges. We suggest listening to heartening accounts of journalists who have braved the odds, venturing into regions most affected by the conflict to establish independent news outlets; engage in discussions about the strategic, operational, and logistical challenges they face and their innovative solutions.
