Outlook International Desk
Every year, RSF Reporters Without Borders releases the World Press Freedom Index. The Index ranks countries based on how much freedom their press or media have. Which country do you think tops the list in 2024?
And where does the USA stand?
Global Score: 91.89
Norway has a sturdy legal framework ensuring press freedom. Its media landscape is dynamic, with a robust public service broadcaster and a diverse private sector. Publishing companies in Norway uphold significant editorial independence, contributing to a vibrant media market.
Global Score: 89.6
There has been a notable surge in interest in traditional investigative journalism in Denmark, particularly concerning healthcare-related topics.
Global Score: 88.32
Sweden, the pioneer in enacting press freedom legislation, holds a strong commitment to media autonomy. However, despite this supportive environment, journalists still face threats, online harassment, and malicious legal actions.
Global Score: 87.73
The assassination of crime reporter Peter R. de Vries in July 2021 sent shockwaves through both a society that cherishes press freedom and the authorities who have established an advanced system to safeguard journalists.
Global Score: 86.55
Media enjoys freedom in Finland ever since the first law against censorship was enacted in 1776 under Swedish rule. Nevertheless, recent state secrecy lawsuits and a court decision challenging the legal protections of journalists have fostered an atmosphere of uncertainty within the profession.
Global Score: 86.44
While press freedom is legally and politically assured, journalists encounter the threat of self-censorship owing to anti-defamation laws and cyberbullying.
Global Score: 85.9
Portugal boasts a robust freedom of the press, allowing journalists to report without constraints. However, they contend with economic, legal, and security obstacles in their work.
Global Score: 85.59
Ireland maintains a generally positive environment for press freedom, enabling journalists to operate freely and without obstruction. Nonetheless, there are lingering concerns regarding the future financial support for media outlets, including the public service broadcaster RTé.
Global Score: 84.01
While Switzerland generally provides a secure and supportive environment for journalists, press freedom has encountered a less favorable political climate in recent years.
Global Score: 83.84
Although the overall legal environment is favourable to journalism, security law reforms have granted intelligence agencies broader powers that undermine journalists’ fundamental rights. Furthermore, access to information is fragmented, media pluralism has been threatened and violence against journalists is increasing.
Global Score: 66.59
Following a notable surge in 2020, instances of press freedom violations have notably decreased in the United States. However, substantial structural obstacles to press freedom persist in a nation that was historically regarded as a beacon for freedom of expression.