Press Freedom Worldwide Hits Record Low Amid Rising Authoritarianism
In a concerning global trend, press freedom has fallen to its lowest level in 25 years, according to the annual World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). This reflects a broader rise in authoritarianism, with more than half of the countries worldwide classified as in a 'difficult' or 'very grave' situation.
Global Press Freedom in Decline
The average score for all countries and territories worldwide has never been so low,
reported RSF, with 75% of countries being rated as problematic
or worse. This is a significant increase from 2002, when only 13.7% of nations were in such a perilous condition. RSF warns that these are nations where press freedom is practically non-existent, and journalism is extremely dangerous.
Notable Country Rankings
In a surprising development, Brazil surpassed the U.S. in press freedom for the first time. RSF attributed Ukraine's improved ranking to the country's dynamic media sector and the investigative work carried out by Ukrainian outlets to strengthen transparency in the country's political life
. However, it was not all positive, with Italy falling to the 56th place, from 49th in 2025. Serbia and Turkey were highlighted as countries where journalists are particularly at risk of physical attack or political pressure.
Threats and Violence Against the Press
Journalism is increasingly being criminalised worldwide, with physical attacks against journalists and media outlets on the rise. A report documented 72 press freedom violations in Somalia alone in 2025, including 69 attacks on journalists, two attacks on media outlets, and the killing of journalist Mohammed Abukar Mohammed. Amidst these alarming reports, a White House correspondents’ dinner ended with gun violence, underscoring how political violence has become a feature of American life.
Global Reactions and Implications
As this situation worsens, there have been calls for action. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has expressed concern over the recent attacks on journalists and negatively impacting legislation. They appealed to Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema, urging him to champion the media as Zambia prepares to host the United Nations' World Press Freedom Day 2026 Global Conference on May 3rd.
However, there are glimmers of hope amidst the bleak picture. A Kuwaiti American journalist, detained for nearly two months during a crackdown on press freedom, was acquitted of all charges, indicating some pushback against the rising tide of press suppression.
Conclusion
The declining state of press freedom worldwide paints a grim picture for the future of journalism. The rise in authoritarianism appears to be directly linked to this deterioration, raising serious concerns about the state of democracy globally. As nations prepare to observe World Press Freedom Day, the focus will be on how to counter this grave trend and ensure the protection and freedom of the press.