eQtv launches on Svoboda satellite, expanding digital security education across Eastern Europe
eQualitie, a Canadian technology not-for-profit, in partnership with Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Svoboda Satellite project, is excited to announce the launch of eQtv, a new satellite TV channel bringing cybersecurity education and digital awareness to communities across Eastern Europe. eQtv harnesses satellite technology to reach audiences in regions where access to independent information and essential digital resources is increasingly restricted.
eQTv is the 12th television channel to join the Svoboda satellite package, which includes a wide range of content providers such as Echo, Radio Sakharov, Current Time, Euroradio, TV8, Ost/West 24, as well as other composite channels with Dimitry Gordon, Irina Shikhman, IStories, Holod Media, Novaya Gazeta Europe, and many more.
The launch of eQtv marks a significant step in addressing the growing need for digital security education. By combining technology, education, and advocacy, eQtv is helping to build a more informed and resilient digital community in the region. eQTv’s strategy is very much aligned with the Svoboda project: Svoboda, which means freedom in Russian, has a mission to deliver alternative channels in Russian, to Russian speakers everywhere, including within the Russian Federation. Svoboda’s signal reaches more than 61 million satellite households.
Dmitri Vitaliev, eQualitie's founder, noted, “eQtv is a chance to help people across Eastern Europe build the skills they need to navigate an increasingly complex digital world. Our partnership with RSF allows us to amplify this message and reach communities who need it the most.”
eQtv launches with 300 hours of multilingual content, offering expert interviews, practical tutorials, and news on global and regional cybersecurity issues, such as cyber hygiene, personal data protection, and safe digital practices, helping individuals take control of their digital security. Programming is available in Ukrainian, Russian, and English, with plans to expand the content library and add additional languages to meet the needs of diverse audiences, including those in underserved rural areas, bridging critical gaps in digital literacy.
Thibaut Bruttin, Director General of RSF added, “eQtv represents a bold step forward in our commitment to empowering audiences with knowledge that not only informs but protects.”
RSF officially launched the Svoboda Satellite Package on 5 March 2024. Russian-speaking TV and radio channels are broadcast on Eutelsat’s popular Hotbird satellite at 13E to territories including Russia, occupied territories of Ukraine and Baltic countries. It proves that democracies can export independent journalism to reverse the logic of propaganda.
