Press freedom across the world has declined to its lowest point in a quarter of a century, according to a new report from Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The organization warns that journalism is being increasingly criminalized globally, with governments deploying legal threats, surveillance, and violence to silence critical reporting.
“Journalism is increasingly criminalised worldwide,” RSF stated in its 2025 World Press Freedom Index, which tracks attacks on media independence. The report highlights a surge in the use of anti-terrorism laws, defamation suits, and espionage charges against reporters, as well as a rise in digital surveillance targeting newsrooms.
The findings come as journalists face growing hostility in both authoritarian regimes and established democracies. RSF noted that press freedom violations are no longer confined to countries with a history of repression but are spreading to nations once considered safe havens for the media.
“Press freedom is not just under threat in conflict zones or dictatorships—it is being eroded in places where it was long taken for granted,” the report said.
The organization called on governments worldwide to repeal laws that criminalize journalism and to protect journalists from harassment and violence. “Without a free press, there can be no informed citizenry or accountable governance,” RSF added.