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Steve Rosenberg

Steve Rosenberg stands smiling at the camera in red and green graduation robes.

Presentation address by Dr Sarah Hudspith

Chancellor,

At a time of global instability and uncertainty concerning the reliability of information, it is important to have touchstones of authenticity and integrity. Steve Rosenberg, the BBC Russia Editor, is one such touchstone.

A graduate of Leeds with a First-Class Degree in Russian Studies in 1991, Steve is a journalist of exceptional standing. He has won numerous awards, including the London Press Club Broadcaster of the Year in 2023 and the Charles Wheeler Award for Outstanding Contribution to Broadcast Journalism in 2025. His interview of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko earned him the Royal Television Society award for Network Interview of the Year in 2023. Most recently, in March 2026 he was awarded the Royal Television Society Special Award for Journalistic Excellence for his coverage of Russia. A further indicator of the esteem in which his peers hold him is that he himself has been the subject of a recent edition of Panorama, “Our Man in Moscow”, which showcases the grace and good humour with which he navigates scenarios such as undergoing surveillance, and being challenged by Russian media.

As one of only two UK journalists still operating inside the Russian Federation, Steve has a privileged access to the highest echelons of the Russian state. He is known for his ability to engage the most senior figures directly and to challenge them on issues of the utmost geopolitical importance, respectfully but firmly, and in flawless Russian. His reporting not only embodies the BBC’s values of trust, impartiality, respect and accountability, but also the University of Leeds values of integrity and positive impact on the global stage

At the same time, Steve provides genuine public service broadcasting in bringing the realities of everyday life in Russia to a global audience. His video series ‘Valentina’s Kiosk’, which ran from 2021 to 2023, where he filmed his conversations with his local newspaper vendor, offered an essential counterweight to the mainstream news’s focus on political leaders, providing a human aspect by giving voice to ordinary Russians and bridging national and cultural divides. In another series, ‘Reading Russia’, Steve reviews the Russian press, explaining with clarity and authority differences in tendency, and illuminating cultural context. In every aspect of his work, Steve flies the flag for the ongoing importance of an in-depth knowledge and understanding of other languages, cultures and societies for intercultural relations. His commitment to disseminating a rounded, nuanced and objective portrayal of the country he has made his home is inspirational.

Beyond his journalism, Steve is an accomplished pianist, is well known in the field of piano performance, and has a loyal following for his musical tributes and interpretations associated with a wide range of figures and works of popular culture. In the same manner as his journalism, Steve’s music touches and unites a wide audience, from Mikhail Gorbachev to Eurovision fans. He is a truly gifted communicator.

Chancellor, it is my honour to present to you for the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, Steven Barnett Rosenberg.