What’s New:
Milàn Czerny, a 25-year-old French investigative journalist, is carving out a significant role within the Israeli journalism landscape, especially after making aliyah to Tel Aviv in August 2022.
Why It Matters:
Czerny brings a unique blend of cultural and academic expertise to his role at Shomrim, the Israeli counterpart to the US-based ProPublica. In a climate of escalating conflicts and the need for robust journalism, his work on stories like Hamas’s cryptocurrency fundraising and Russia’s cyberattacks on Israel is critical to an informed public.
Backdrop:
Growing up with a rich French and Jewish-Russian background, Czerny was immersed in diversified cultures from a young age. His experience acquired through education at King’s College, London, study abroad programs including a visit to John Hopkins University in Baltimore, and his master’s degree pursuit at Oxford University laid a foundation for his explorations in political science, international relations, and Russian studies.
Deep Dive:
As a profession, journalism was a natural evolution for Czerny, whose early writing stints with “Le Grand Continent” and “The Insider” honed his insights into Russian societal changes amid the war in Ukraine. His gravitation to Israel and joining Shomrim signifies a remarkable leap into mischief mongering within foreign policy and security lapses which have international resonance.
Big Picture:
The October 7 massacre and the subsequent Swords of Iron war influenced Czerny’s perception of Israel’s history and his role as a journalist during these pivotal moments. His contributions here strengthen Israeli democracy through uncovering overlooked issues and molding his influence on both local and international media landscapes.
Be Smart:
Czerny’s transition into Israeli society and the journalistic sphere has been smooth, fostered by meaningful relationships and the shared purpose with his Israeli journalist partner. His ability to capitalize on social media and online resources introduces fresh perspectives within the Israeli investigative reporting scene.
The Bottom Line:
Czerny’s proficiency and drive represent an invaluable addition to Israeli news dissemination and democracy. His work showcases the importance of different vantage points in media and the essential role investigative journalism plays in uncovering truths and shaping narratives.
Go Deeper:
This French native believes in the weight of his narrative and seeking the positive within his journey, Czerny emphasizes the significance of his mission and the robustness of the journalistic groundwork in Israel.
This story was first published on jpost.com.