Global Press Freedom Hits 25-Year Low Amid Rising Journalist Killings and Censorship

Press freedom worldwide has plummeted to its lowest point in 25 years, according to the latest World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The report highlights a disturbing trend of increasing criminalization of journalism, with more than half of the 180 countries surveyed now categorized as having 'difficult' or 'very serious' press freedom conditions.

This decline matters because it signals a global crackdown on independent media, threatening the public's right to information and undermining democratic values. The report also draws attention to the deadly risks journalists face, especially in conflict zones like Gaza, where over 220 journalists have been killed since October 2023.

A Grim Global Landscape for Journalists

For the first time since RSF began publishing its index in 2002, more than half of the world's countries fall into the categories of 'difficult' or 'very serious' press freedom. Only seven countries, mostly in the Nordic region, maintain a 'good' rating, with Norway, the Netherlands, and Estonia leading the pack. France ranks 25th with a 'satisfactory' score, while the United States has slipped to 64th, reflecting a seven-place drop since 2017.

Criminalization and Violence Against Journalists

RSF reports that over 60% of countries have enacted laws or policies that criminalize media workers, often through misuse of emergency legislation or common law. Countries like India, Egypt, Georgia, Turkey, and Hong Kong are cited as examples of harsh state crackdowns. The report also highlights the alarming number of journalists killed in conflict zones, with Gaza being the deadliest, where the Israeli army has killed more than 220 journalists since October 2023.

Although attacks on the right to information are more diverse and sophisticated, their perpetrators are now operating in plain sight. Authoritarian states, complicit or incompetent political powers, predatory economic actors, and under-regulated online platforms are driving the global decline in press freedom.—Anne Bocande, RSF Editorial Director

Regional Hotspots and Political Impact

Eastern Europe and the Middle East remain the most dangerous regions for journalists, with Russia and Iran ranking among the worst offenders. Latin America has seen dramatic declines, notably Argentina and El Salvador, the latter dropping 105 places since 2014 amid a crackdown on criminal gangs. The report also points to the impact of wars and restricted access to information as key factors in the erosion of press freedom.

The Urgent Call for Action

RSF urges democratic governments and citizens to strengthen protections for journalists and impose meaningful sanctions against those who criminalize the press. Current international laws are insufficient, and impunity for attacks on journalists remains widespread. Anne Bocande warns that inaction equates to endorsement of authoritarianism, but stresses that the spread of authoritarianism is not inevitable.

Current protection mechanisms are not strong enough; international law is being undermined and impunity is rife. Inaction is a form of endorsement. The spread of authoritarianism isn’t inevitable.—Anne Bocande, RSF Editorial Director