Gareth Jones: Eyewitness to the Holodomor

Gareth Jones, a young Welsh investigative journalist, revealed the horror of the Holodomor, the Soviet Government-induced famine of the early 1930s, by visiting Ukraine in 1933 and reporting what he saw. Despite his efforts, his credibility and integrity were attacked by Soviet sympathizers, and he was killed by bandits in 1934.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2018
Publisher: Welsh Academic Press

Gareth Jones, a young Welsh investigative journalist, holds a revered status in Ukraine as a national hero. His remarkable story has now gained rightful recognition as the first reporter to expose the horrifying reality of the Holodomor, the Soviet Government-induced famine that struck the early 1930s, resulting in the tragic loss of millions of Ukrainians.

Born in 1905, Jones possessed a unique blend of skills that set him apart. He hailed from a small Welsh town and had received his education at Aberystwyth and Cambridge, where he developed a profound knowledge of Russian. This linguistic proficiency became a crucial asset in his pursuit of truth.

In 1933, driven by a deep sense of compassion and a commitment to justice, Jones embarked on a perilous journey to Ukraine. His mission was to investigate the Soviet Government's denials that its Five Year Plan had led to widespread starvation. Despite the risks, Jones was determined to shed light on the suffering of the Ukrainian people and expose the atrocities perpetrated by Stalin's regime.

During his time in Ukraine, Jones witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of the Holodomor. He walked through villages and twelve collective farms, encountering the anguished cries of people who were starving to death. The sight of emaciated children and the despair in their eyes haunted him deeply.

Determined to bring the truth to the world, Jones published numerous articles in both the UK and the USA. His reports, with headlines like "Famine Grips Russia. Millions Dying," highlighted the gravity of the situation and called for international action. However, his efforts were met with resistance and skepticism. Soviet sympathizers, including the influential Moscow-based Walter Duranty of the New York Times, launched a relentless campaign to discredit and undermine Jones's credibility.

Despite the obstacles, Jones remained steadfast in his pursuit of truth. He continued to report on the Holodomor, even as his life was threatened. In 1934, on the eve of his 30th birthday, Jones tragically lost his life to bandits while traveling in Japanese-controlled China. The circumstances surrounding his murder remain shrouded in suspicion, with strong indications that the Soviets were involved in retaliation for his eyewitness reporting that had brought global attention to the Holodomor.

Gareth Jones's legacy endures as a testament to the power of journalism and the courage of individuals who risk everything to expose the truth. His unwavering commitment to the suffering of the Ukrainian people and his fearless pursuit of justice have left an indelible mark on history. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against oppression and injustice, even in the face of great adversity.

Today, the people of Ukraine honor Gareth Jones as a national hero, and his memory is celebrated worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire journalists, activists, and individuals who seek to uphold the principles of truth and human rights. The Holodomor remains a haunting reminder of the darkest chapter in human history, and it is through the tireless efforts of journalists like Gareth Jones that we are able to understand and commemorate the lives lost and the suffering endured.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 220 x 137 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781860571282
Edition number: 2 New edition