The Scoop: WSJ reporter’s release emphasizes importance of free press

After 491 days of unjust detention in Russia, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is free and back home in the United States.

Gershkovich, 32, spent the last year-plus behind bars on a false allegation of espionage. A Russian court sentenced him to 16 years in a high-security penal colony following a hurried and secret three-day trial, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The United States government managed to secure Gershkovich’s freedom as part of a multicounty prisoner exchange with Russia. Among those also released were fellow journalist Alsu Kurmashevar, former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan and British-Russian activist Vladimir Kara-Murza.

Join @VP and me as we greet Americans freed from Russia at Joint Base Andrews. https://t.co/0B5iOzYKk0

— President Biden (@POTUS) August 2, 2024

Why it matters: The return of all four individuals is surely a relief for their families, loved ones and colleagues. It’s also huge news for the Wall Street Journal, Radio Free Europe-Radio Liberty (where Kurmashevar works as an editor) and journalists across the globe.

PR and comms professionals work closely with journalists every day and know the importance of their work. Having a free press – one without the threat of government interference or censorship – makes it possible for the public to trust the stories and thought leadership journalists are sharing.

The freedom of the press is a fundamental liberty of the United States, so much so that it’s embedded in the First Amendment of our Constitution. Journalists serve as watchdogs of truth and help convey important and sometimes confusing messages with the public to help them better understand what’s going on in the world around them.

That sense of trust is what makes earned media so important, and the safety of journalists so vital to the field of communications and the world.

6. It is worth remembering that Evan was thrown in jail and had his life put on hold for 16 months for doing absolutely nothing wrong. He was charged and convicted for practicing journalism. Period. #IStandWithEvan #WelcomeHomeEvan

— Paul Beckett (@paulwsj) August 1, 2024

This situation, particularly that involving both Gershkovich and Kurmasheva, is a reminder that those same freedoms aren’t experienced everywhere.

“There are still far too many journalists and other political prisoners wrongfully detained in Russia and around the globe, and we must continue to work to win their freedom,” former President Bill Clinton wrote on X . “My thoughts are with the families soon to be reunited, and with those whose loved ones remain imprisoned.”

The biggest takeaway here is we’re happy that Evan and Alsu are back home and can hopefully get back to work soon. Can’t wait to read your next byline.

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Casey Weldon is a reporter for PR Daily. Follow him on LinkedIn.