Global Press Freedom Hits Lowest Level in 25 Years

Press freedom around the world has fallen to its lowest level in 25 years, according to a report released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), a media rights organisation.

The report said more than half of all countries now fall into “difficult” or “very serious” categories for press freedom for the first time since the index was created. It also noted that the global average score for press freedom has never been lower.

RSF highlighted growing pressure on journalists in several countries, including what it described as systematic attacks on the media in the United States under President Donald Trump, along with worsening conditions in conflict-affected and authoritarian states.

The organisation said the share of people living in countries with a “good” press freedom environment has dropped sharply from around 20 percent to less than one percent. Only seven countries, all in Northern Europe and led by Norway, remain in that category.

The United States fell further in the rankings to 64th place, citing increased pressure on journalists, detentions, and funding cuts to international broadcasting. RSF also pointed to cases such as the detention and expulsion of journalists reporting on migration issues.

The report also raised concerns over media conditions in Russia, where it said laws targeting terrorism and extremism are being used to restrict journalism. It estimated that dozens of journalists remain in detention there.

In Africa, Niger recorded the steepest decline, reflecting worsening conditions for journalists amid political instability and armed conflict in the Sahel region.

At the top of the index, Norway retained its position as the world leader in press freedom for the tenth consecutive year, while Eritrea remained at the bottom.

RSF also noted some improvement in Syria following political changes in late 2024, but said the overall situation there remains extremely serious.

RSF editorial director Anne Bocandé said existing protections for journalists are insufficient, warning that international legal safeguards are weakening. She called for stronger guarantees and effective measures to hold violators accountable.