by InTrieste
Renowned war journalist Fausto Biloslavo, known for his coverage of conflicts across the globe, expressed deep appreciation for being part of the “Festival of Change 2025” in Gorizia, a town that has witnessed immense suffering over the course of the last century. “I’m honored to be involved in this event in Gorizia on May 15,” Biloslavo told us. “It’s not just because I’ve spent more than 40 years covering wars, but also because Gorizia holds significant historical importance—it’s not only a capital of culture but a town that endured the scars of two world wars.”
As one of Italy’s most respected journalists, Biloslavo spoke about the deep historical ties Gorizia has with war reporting, a legacy that includes famous writers and journalists like Ernest Hemingway, who served in World War I, Alicia Schakel, the first female war correspondent, and Luigi Barzini of Corriere della Sera, whose impactful journalism from the Great War is still remembered today.
The region, he pointed out, also holds a tragic record in the number of journalists killed while covering conflicts. “Friuli Venezia Giulia has lost five journalists after World War II—more than half of Italy’s total casualties among journalists covering wars,” Biloslavo said, emphasizing the tremendous risks reporters face when they go to the front lines.
For Biloslavo, the event in Gorizia represents more than just a chance to reflect on history—it’s an opportunity to discuss the present and future of war reporting. “This panel is important because it brings together those who have been on the ground, people who understand the human cost of conflict. The final goal is always peace.”
However, Biloslavo remains realistic about the complexities of achieving lasting peace. “I’m not sure there is such a thing as ‘perfect peace,’ with a capital P. But ceasefires, like those in Ukraine and Gaza, show us that peace is always possible—every war ends, sooner or later.”
He recalled his recent return from Ukraine, where he spent three weeks covering the front lines in Donbass. “When I come back, I want to take the train. As the train approaches Trieste, I look out the window and see the breathtaking Gulf of Trieste—this beautiful corner of Italy, which could be anywhere in the world. It’s a feeling of serenity, but also one of reflection. I think about all the pain and suffering I’ve witnessed and reported on in the conflicts I’ve covered.”
Biloslavo continued, “And then, in just 20 minutes, I arrive at the Trieste train station. Maybe my wife or daughter is waiting for me. That’s when I truly understand how fortunate we are to live in peace—peace that we’ve enjoyed for more than 80 years. But we can lose it in an instant. That’s the message.”
As he prepares for the Festival of Change, Biloslavo’s words are a powerful reminder of the fragility of peace and the vital role journalists play in documenting the harsh realities of war, with the hope that these stories will one day lead to a more peaceful world.
