Skopje, 30 January 2025 (MIA) - The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) presented Thursday the 2024 journalism awards for covering issues related to the topic of air pollution in North Macedonia.

Martin Pushevski won the top prize for his documentary focused on air pollution, examining the impact of the country’s aged energy capacities, inefficient transport, uncontrolled construction, and pollution from households, which aired on the national broadcaster, the Macedonian Radio Television (MRT).

Emilija Misirlievska won second place with her coverage of pollution in Bitola and its impact, which aired as part of TV Telma’s “Kod” investigative magazine.

Ubavka Janevska won third place for her coverage of the long-standing issue with the former smelting plant in Veles and its pollution of the environment with heavy metals.

The event also presented a special recognition to journalist Asdren Çeliku from the Macedonian Radio Television (MRT) for his innovative and creative approach and contribution to raising public awareness about the environment.

The award ceremony was addressed by the head of AJM, Mladen Chadikovski, the Swedish Ambassador to North Macedonia, Ami Larsson Jain, as well as UNDP Resident Representative Armen Grigoryan.

Chadikovski highlighted the role of journalists in the process of raising awareness about the issue of pollution.

“We witness the devastating impact of air pollution on the health of people, the environment and society as a whole on a daily basis. From cities choking in smog, to industrial locations releasing toxic fumes, the evidence for this crisis is irrefutable. We, the journalists, are the bridge between the public and the issues that affect us all. Our power lies precisely in the reporting of information, pointing fingers to the specific issues, and not only once, but continuously, until awareness reaches the highest possible level,” Chadikovski said.

Ambassador Larsson Jain stressed that journalists contribute to the creation of a critical mass of citizens that will demand solutions from policymakers.

“This role of penetrating the smog of disinformation and shining light on critical aspects of an issue are what makes you so irreplaceable as journalists. Through your merciless struggle for the truth, society gets to know itself better and is consequently better equipped to get involved,” the Ambassador said.

UNDP Resident Representative Grigoryan highlighted the importance of journalists in all societies when it comes to raising awareness over air pollution.

“Every day, journalists are on the frontline when it comes to raising awareness about the challenge of air pollution, seeking answers to critical questions: What is polluting the air we breathe? What can and should be done to resolve this? UNDP recognizes their work as a vital factor for informing the public and mobilizing society in the search for effective solutions for the fight against air pollution. By shining light on the reasons and consequences of air pollution, the media encourage responsibility and action by policymakers and encourage the citizens to become part of the solutions,” Grigoryan said.

The “Tackling Air Pollution in North Macedonia” project is funded by Sweden and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Association of Journalists of Macedonia, the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning and the municipalities of Kavadarci, Kumanovo, Gostivar, Struga, and Strumica.