Carrying the shroud: A life of risk and responsibility

People often consider their interests, talents, job market prospects, salary, work-life balance, future career opportunities, and personal values when choosing a profession. As they progress along their career path, individuals gradually learn to adapt to and overcome the positive or negative consequences that come with their chosen work. There are countless professions in every sphere of life. As children, we imagine ourselves as doctors, teachers, pilots, or law enforcement officers. Some people choose a particular profession out of genuine passion, while others are driven by financial incentives or family tradition. Yet, there are also individuals who are not drawn to material stability or inherited career paths—they are guided solely by intellect, willpower, and a compassionate heart. These qualities lead them forward. One of our teachers once said, “Courage does not discriminate.” This profession includes both women and men who, in today’s increasingly volatile world, live not just for themselves but for others—listening to the pain of the oppressed, the unjustly treated, and the helpless, while fighting for justice. Many have faced threats and harassment on this path. Yes, as you might have guessed, we are talking about journalists who have taken on this heavy burden.

A number of professionals from this field were honored on June 27 at the traditional “Golden Pen” XIX National Award ceremony, held in recognition of the Day of Press and Mass Media Workers. Among the awarded media outlets, journalists, and bloggers was the QALAMPIR.UZ publication. We extended congratulations to all journalists, bloggers, and media professionals—whether awarded or not—and invited several of them for a conversation. We wished that their golden pens become like swords, cutting down the unjust and oppressive, and defending the integrity of their impartial work.

Journalist and commentator Khairulla Hamidov, reflecting on the current state of journalism, emphasized that today’s era is more open than previous ones, with increased competition in the media and greater opportunities for talent development.

“A person is insatiable—he always wants more. And to achieve more, you have to fight for it. When journalists and young people say, ‘We need conditions,’ I tell them no—you must fight to create your own conditions. That’s when a journalist is born—when he struggles and, while building conditions for himself, also brings benefits to society through his creativity,” said the recipient of the “Shuhrat” medal.

Nozima Vohidova, senior editor at the “Culture and Enlightenment” TV channel, drawing from her 30 years of experience, stated that today’s generation of Uzbek journalists has access to boundless opportunities—both materially and spiritually. According to her, what’s important is to choose the right angles, ensure impartial analysis and criticism, and maintain sensitivity to the problems of the people.

“Sometimes, a lack of knowledge in the field, unfamiliarity with techniques, technologies, or foreign languages can be an obstacle. But from my experience, I can say that most young people today are our creative rivals—in a good way. They encourage us to keep exploring, as they are more adept at modern techniques. If their passion remains alive, if they engage deeply with topics and analyze them thoroughly, we are on the brink of witnessing the emergence of journalists who will shine on the world stage,” said Nozima Vohidova.

Blogger Eldor Asanov, another recipient of the “Shuhrat” medal, acknowledged that today’s media has advanced significantly in terms of technology, video content has increased, and quality has improved. However, he also noted that attention to written content has declined. Even though newspapers were often criticized in the past, they maintained editorial standards and a refined use of language. Today, many have shifted to video formats, and fewer journalists remain who are dedicated to the written word.

“When it comes to topics, I really appreciate that today’s Uzbek media increasingly focuses on globally relevant ethical issues like urban planning, ecology, environmental protection, and animal rights. However, the spirit of critical journalism that existed five years ago has diminished,” the blogger remarked.

QALAMPIR.UZ director Qamariddin Shaykhov pointed out that among the challenges facing journalism today are problems within journalists themselves—such as a lack of professionalism, poor conduct, and an inflated sense of self-righteousness.

“Perhaps we are the most foolish among the intelligent, and there are many instances where justice fails us—precisely when we are demanding it,” said the journalist, who received the “Golden Pen” award in the category for best critical-analytical piece on a current issue.

Sherzodkhon Kudratkhodja, rector of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications of Uzbekistan, remarked that much of today’s media content is superficial, and that audiences have grown accustomed to such material.

“The information is shallow—reported as ‘urgent’ or ‘important’—but our people have adapted to this and developed a taste for it. That is the core of the problem. I want to raise people’s standards,” said the rector.

Sharof Ubaydullayev, first deputy chairman of the Republican "Nuroniy" Foundation and an honored journalist, delivered a scathing critique of the Journalists’ Union, expressing his dissatisfaction with its current state. He also warned of a critical situation in the field of journalism.

“We claim to have 2,000 newspapers, but some have a circulation of fewer than 500 copies. I don’t care about that figure, but judging by some reports, people with no connection to journalism are occupying top positions in the industry. If we fail to distinguish between the progressive and the stagnant, our journalism will remain in the hands of organizations as ineffective as the current Journalists’ Union—far removed from the profession—and will fall short of living up to the respect our President has given us,” said veteran journalist Sharof Ubaydullayev.

At the event, we also spoke with poet Jamshid Akbarov. He congratulated journalists on their professional holiday and recited his new poem, “Those Who Suffer the Pains of Journalism,” dedicated to the tireless members of the media.

You can watch the full report in the video player above or on QALAMPIR.UZ’s official YouTube channel.