Ettore Mo, a name synonymous with courage and dedication in the field of journalism, stands out as one of the most prominent war correspondents in the history of Italian journalism. Born on April 1, 1932, in Borgomanero, a small town in the province of Novara, Italy, Ettore Mo’s life was one marked by relentless pursuit of truth, even in the most dangerous and war-torn regions of the world.
Early Life and Education
Ettore Mo’s journey to becoming a legendary journalist was anything but straightforward. After completing his classical studies at high school, he enrolled at the prestigious Ca’ Foscari University in Venice, where he pursued languages and foreign literature. However, Mo’s restless spirit led him to abandon his studies before completing his degree. He chose instead to travel, seeking out new experiences and knowledge beyond the confines of academia.
Mo’s travels took him across Europe, from Venice to Milan, Jersey, Paris, Madrid, Hamburg, and finally London. To support himself during these years, Mo took on a variety of jobs. He worked as a waiter, librarian, steward, nurse, and French teacher, among other things. These experiences, though varied and challenging, contributed to his deep understanding of the world and the diverse cultures within it.
The Turning Point: Meeting Piero Ottone
In 1962, while in London, Ettore Mo had a fateful encounter with Piero Ottone, an influential figure in Italian journalism during the 1970s. Ottone, who was then the London correspondent for the renowned Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, recognized something special in Mo. This meeting proved to be the turning point in Mo’s life, setting him on the path to becoming a journalist.
At the age of 30, Mo began his long and arduous journey in journalism. He remained in London for five years, honing his craft and gaining valuable experience. Eventually, he moved to Rome and Milan, where he focused on covering music and theater for the culture and entertainment sections of the newspaper. However, it was not long before Mo’s true calling as a war correspondent began to emerge.
Rise to Fame: The Making of a War Correspondent
In 1979, Ettore Mo’s career took a dramatic turn when Franco Di Bella, the then-editor of Corriere della Sera, sent him to Tehran, Iran. The country was in the throes of revolution, with Ayatollah Khomeini having just returned from exile to seize power. Mo’s coverage of the Khomeinist revolution in Iran and the subsequent Soviet invasion of Afghanistan brought him into the spotlight. His ability to capture the complexities of these events, coupled with his willingness to put himself in harm’s way, quickly established him as a fearless and insightful correspondent.
Mo’s work during this period was characterized by a deep commitment to being on the ground, seeing events unfold with his own eyes, and hearing the stories of those directly involved. He believed that the essence of journalism lay in firsthand experience, a philosophy that would guide him throughout his career.
The 1980s and 1990s: Reporting from the Frontlines
The 1980s and 1990s were perhaps the most prolific years of Ettore Mo’s career. During this time, he traveled extensively, covering some of the most significant conflicts and crises of the era. One of his most notable assignments was his repeated visits to Afghanistan, where he often entered the country clandestinely, disguised as a Mujahideen fighter. His dedication to reporting on the Afghan resistance against Soviet forces brought him international acclaim.
In 1981, Mo had his first encounter with Ahmad Shah Massoud, the legendary Afghan resistance leader known as the “Lion of Panjshir.” Over the years, Mo would interview Massoud several times, developing a deep respect for the man who fought not only with weapons but also with ideas and poetry. Tragically, Massoud was assassinated just two days before the 9/11 attacks, a loss that Mo would later describe with great sorrow.
In 1995, during the Bosnian War, Mo was in Sarajevo, one of the most perilous places in the world at that time. Accompanying him was Luigi Baldelli, a photographer who would become Mo’s trusted companion on many dangerous assignments. Together, they documented the horrors of war, bringing the realities of these conflicts to readers who might otherwise never have known the full extent of the human suffering involved.
Mo’s Philosophy: Journalism as Witnessing
Ettore Mo’s approach to journalism was deeply rooted in the belief that the journalist’s primary role is to bear witness. He insisted on being present at the scene, observing events as they happened, and listening to the accounts of those who lived through them. This philosophy set him apart from many of his contemporaries and made his reports both authentic and compelling.
Throughout his career, Mo had the privilege of meeting and interviewing some of the most influential figures of the 20th century. His encounters included the likes of Herbert von Karajan, Luciano Pavarotti, the Vietnamese General Giap, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, and even The Beatles in London. Each of these interviews was conducted with the same dedication to truth and understanding that characterized all of Mo’s work.
Even after his official retirement, Ettore Mo could not resist the call of the stories that needed to be told. He continued to travel the world, seeking out new narratives and experiences to share with his readers. As he once put it, “It is a disease: if you have had the fortune of witnessing the greatest events, you can never give it up.”
Legacy and Death
Ettore Mo’s career spanned several decades, during which he wrote numerous books and received countless awards and recognitions. His work not only informed but also inspired a generation of journalists and readers alike. Mo’s legacy is that of a man who dedicated his life to uncovering the truth, regardless of the personal risks involved.
On October 9, 2023, Ettore Mo passed away at the age of 91. His death marked the end of an era in journalism, but his contributions to the field will continue to be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Conclusion: The Enduring Influence of Ettore Mo
Ettore Mo’s life and career serve as a testament to the power of journalism to shape our understanding of the world. Through his fearless reporting, Mo brought the realities of war and conflict into the homes of millions, challenging them to confront the harsh truths of human existence. His work remains a benchmark for journalistic excellence, a reminder that the pursuit of truth is not just a profession but a calling.
Mo’s story is one of dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the principles of journalism. As we reflect on his life and achievements, we are reminded of the vital role that journalists like Ettore Mo play in our society. In a world where the truth is often obscured by noise and misinformation, Mo’s legacy is a beacon of integrity and hope for future generations of journalists.
