The United States has fallen to a "historic low" in the World Press Freedom Index, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The organization cited increasing media consolidation and policies under the Trump administration as key drivers of what it calls a "press freedom crisis."
The annual report, released by the Paris-based watchdog, highlights growing threats to journalists, including legal challenges, physical attacks, and a decline in public trust. RSF's index ranks 180 countries based on pluralism, media independence, and safety for journalists.
Experts note that the US drop reflects broader global trends where democratic institutions are under strain. The report urges policymakers to strengthen protections for press freedom and combat the concentration of media ownership.