Dmitry Muratov

Dmitry Muratov was born on November 30, 1961, in the city of Kuibyshev, now known as Samara, Russia. His early years were spent in Soviet Russia, where he would later become a prominent journalist. Muratov's educational background and early interest in journalism set the stage for his future endeavors in the field, leading to the eventual founding of an independent newspaper in Russia, which became known for its investigative journalism and brave reporting.

In December 1993, Dmitry Muratov co-founded Novaya Gazeta, an independent Russian newspaper known for its critical and investigative journalism. The newspaper was established by a group of journalists united by the aim to offer more truthful coverage of events in Russia, amidst a media landscape largely dominated by state-controlled outlets. Novaya Gazeta quickly gained reputation for its fearless reporting, tackling sensitive topics such as corruption and human rights abuses, making it a crucial voice for free press in Russia.

Dmitry Muratov became the editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta in January 2000. This role placed him at the forefront of one of Russia's most respected independent newspapers during a time when press freedom was becoming increasingly vulnerable. Under his leadership, Novaya Gazeta continued to pursue investigative journalism despite facing continuous threats and intimidation tactics aimed at its staff. Muratov's dedication to his role underscored his commitment to journalistic integrity and courage in the face of adversity.

On October 22, 2007, Dmitry Muratov was awarded the International Press Freedom Award by the Committee to Protect Journalists, recognizing his courageous efforts as the editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta. Muratov's leadership and commitment to fearless journalism, especially in the face of threats and violence against journalists, highlighted the challenges faced by the press in Russia. Under his editorship, Novaya Gazeta continued to publish critical reports, advocating for freedom of expression and the protection of journalists.

On April 21, 2011, Dmitry Muratov was announced as a laureate of the Four Freedoms Award, which honors individuals who have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. Muratov was recognized for his fearless journalism and dedication to press freedom in Russia. His leadership at Novaya Gazeta exemplified the values the award celebrated, marking him as a symbol of resilience amidst adversity in the media landscape.

In April 2018, Dmitry Muratov resumed his position as the editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta, a role he had voluntarily left in 2017. His decision to return came at a critical time for the newspaper, which was facing increasing pressure and challenges from the Russian government. Under Muratov's renewed leadership, Novaya Gazeta continued to uphold its reputation for hard-hitting investigative journalism and its firm stance on defending independent reporting against censorship and external threats.

On October 8, 2021, Dmitry Muratov was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, along with Maria Ressa, for their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace. As the editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta, Muratov was recognized for his tireless commitment to a free press and his efforts to protect the rights of journalists under increasingly trying circumstances in Russia. This award brought international attention to the challenges faced by those in Russian media who strive for truthful reporting.

On March 28, 2022, Novaya Gazeta announced that it would suspend its publication both online and in print in Russia. This decision was made following increasing censorship and pressure imposed by the Russian government amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Dmitry Muratov, the newspaper's editor-in-chief, stated that the suspension was a temporary measure to ensure the safety of the staff. Novaya Gazeta has been one of the last major independent media voices in Russia, known for its critical reporting and comprehensive investigative journalism.

On June 20, 2022, Dmitry Muratov auctioned his 2021 Nobel Peace Prize medal to raise funds to help displaced children affected by the war in Ukraine. The auction, which took place in New York, raised a record-breaking $103.5 million, with proceeds going to UNICEF. Muratov's decision to auction the medal was a statement of solidarity with those suffering due to the conflict and an effort to provide humanitarian aid in a significant way. It was a personal sacrifice symbolizing his commitment to humanitarian causes.

On July 22, 2022, Novaya Gazeta, led by Dmitry Muratov, was stripped of its media license in Russia in a continued crackdown on independent media outlets by the Russian government. The action came after a series of legal and political pressures on the newspaper, which had long been a critical voice against government policies and corruption. This decision further silenced one of the few remaining platforms for dissent in Russia, highlighting the precarious state of journalistic freedom in the country under increasing authoritarian control.