By: Muluken Tekleyohanes GM
Editor-in-Chief, Ambassador Media
Gießen, Germany — January 2026
As journalists around the world continue to face unprecedented challenges, press freedom has never been more vital. For those of us forced into exile due to persecution and threats in our home countries, continuing journalistic work is both a necessity and a struggle.
After enduring severe persecution, including physical and psychological torture, constant threats, and the systematic suppression of my journalistic work in Ethiopia, exile became the only option for survival. Arriving in Germany with trauma and limited resources, continuing my profession felt almost impossible. It was at this critical moment that the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), through its Journalists-in-Exile Programme, provided essential legal assistance, professional equipment, and institutional support. This intervention not only helped restore my sense of safety and dignity but also enabled me to rebuild my journalistic career and continue reporting in defense of press freedom, demonstrating how targeted international solidarity can transform suffering into resilience and renewed professional purpose.
In this context, I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) for their invaluable support through the Journalists-in-Exile Programme (JiE). ecpmf.eu
The ECPMF is a Leipzig-based non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting, defending and safeguarding media freedom and freedom of expression across Europe. Founded in 2015, the Centre operates on the principles of the European Charter on Freedom of the Press and offers practical support to journalists at risk—from legal advice to training, equipment, psychosocial support, and networking opportunities. ecpmf.eu
One of ECPMF’s central initiatives for media professionals in exile is the Journalists-in-Exile Programme, established as a structured, long-term support framework. This programme helps journalists who have fled oppression to continue their work in safety, providing access to professional development, legal consultation, language courses, journalistic equipment, and community networks.
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I am personally grateful for the all support and equipment assistance that enabled me to rebuild my journalistic career here in Germany. This support has not only strengthened my reporting capabilities but also reaffirmed the essential idea that free voices cannot be silenced—even when uprooted. Other journalists from diverse backgrounds have likewise benefited from this programme, which underlines ECPMF’s commitment to freedom of information and pluralistic media voices.
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Special Thanks to Katrin Schatz — A Steadfast Advocate
I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Katrin Schatz , the Journalists-in-Exile Programme Manager at ECPMF and the face of practical support for many exile journalists. Katrin’s guidance, professionalism, and unwavering support have made a profound difference in my journey. As a practical, empathetic, and strategic leader, she has enabled countless journalists to navigate complex legal frameworks, access training, improve language skills, and obtain essential equipment—all of which are critical cornerstones for continuing meaningful journalistic work.
archive.ecpmf.eu
Katrin’s role extends far beyond project management; she embodies solidarity and practical assistance for those striving to uphold democratic values in the face of adversity. Her dedication resonates deeply with journalists who have risked everything to uphold the truth.
archive.ecpmf.eu
Looking Ahead: Continued Collaboration for Press Freedom
As I continue my work with Ambassador Media and in pursuit of press freedom, I look forward to deepening collaboration with ECPMF. Together, we can expand opportunities for exiled journalists—to tell stories that matter, to bridge cultures, and to amplify voices that would otherwise be unheard.
I also call on media organisations, human rights advocates and institutions across Europe to support and expand programmes such as ECPMF’s, which play an indispensable role in defending independent journalism and free expression.
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Freedom of information and journalism’s independence are not abstract principles—they are the lifeblood of democratic societies. For exiled journalists, organisations like the ECPMF and leaders like Katrin Schatz provide not just support, but hope, strength, and opportunity. My deepest thanks to them for standing with journalists at a time when it is needed most.
— Muluken Tekleyohanes GM
Editor-in-Chief, Ambassador Media