Dorothée Olliéric is not just another name among war reporters; she is one of the most passionate figures who has consistently put herself on the front lines of conflict zones. Known for her coverage of crises across the globe, Olliéric has immersed herself deeply within war-torn settings, bringing powerful stories back to audiences around the world. Yet, behind this brave facade lies the heart of a dedicated mother and partner, reflecting the unique challenges faced by women who dare to pursue their passions.
Olliéric's career began shortly after her graduation when she took on the role of war correspondent for France 2. Throughout her extensive career, she has covered major conflicts, including those in Cambodia, Afghanistan, and most recently, Ukraine. She recalls, "I have been doing this job for 20 years. I loved it passionately. It ends badly, but it was my choice." Her unsurpassed dedication has put her face-to-face with danger, yet she continues to report on the human stories embedded within the turmoil of war.
Her life took a dramatic turn during the Egyptian coup d'état on August 17, 2013, which was especially perilous for journalists on the ground. That day vividly stands out as she found herself and her team involved in what she described as a terrifying experience. Olliéric recounted, "When the military rounded us up, I thought, 'This is it. We're all going to die.'" With her eyes bound, she could only hear the charged weapons and reflect on the gravity of the moment. The journalists were lined up, and feelings of panic surged through her as she thought about her children. "It was just a simulation of execution to terrorize journalists, but I'm not traumatized by it," she later stated, emphasizing her resilience.
While Olliéric thrives on the adrenaline and intensity of reporting from the front lines, she grapples with the emotional price of her career as well. Every time she prepares for assignment, she faces inner turmoil, especially leaving behind her two children, Castille and Félix. "It's heartbreaking to leave when you have children, especially on war ground," she confided to reporter Rebecca Fitoussi. Building special routines before her departures—looking straight in her children's eyes and expressing her love—Olliéric tries to ease their worries and imprint lasting memories. "When I leave, I want them toremember my gaze, my words," she said, showing her deep connection with her children.
Contrasting her professional life with family life has been challenging, and reactions to her career choice are mixed. Despite societal pressures and being labeled as ‘a bad mother’ for working in such dangerous environments, Olliéric remains unapologetic about her choices. "It's not because I don’t love them or I abandoned them, but this is my work, my passion,” she stated, clarifying her motivations and feelings toward both her family and career.
Olliéric's personal life is anchored with long-time partner Philippe Vandel, who also works as journalist. Positioned beside each other for over 25 years, the couple has built stability around their kids, even amid the chaos brought forth by wartime responsibilities. Unlike the traditional narratives, Philippe never pressured Dorothée against pursuing her career, offering encouragement instead. "He always kept our departures light, cheerful, even if he might have been worried inside," she reflected, showing gratitude for how he has supported her through every hardship.
Her duality as both mother and war reporter is not one she takes lightly. Each time she returns home, away from the clattering of gunfire and bloodshed, she ensures to set aside her work's emotional baggage for her family. "It requires effort but it’s so worth it. I know they appreciate my job, even if they have their own fears," Olliéric shares, focusing on communication with her kids about her work.
She has documented her experiences and struggles through her written works, most notedly her book, Maman s’en va-t-en guerre, which provides insight to her children as to why she takes such risks. By sharing these narratives, she aims to build bridges of empathy and strengthen their bond, helping them navigate the intricacies connected to having their mother as a war correspondent.
Though war reporting is typically perceived as male-dominated and dangerous, Olliéric has carved out her place, earning respect and acknowledgment for her contributions. Her powerful recounts of fear, love, and familiarity with harsh truths of life and death continue to resonate as she navigates through her challenging but rewarding roles.
Balancing the life of conflict journalist and attentive mother has led Olliéric down an uncharted path, inciting both admiration and scrutiny. Yet, through her experiences, she emphasizes the desire for living openly and daringly, whether under the yoke of war or safely at home, raising her beautiful children.