Global Press Freedom Faces Sharpest Decline in 50 Years - Intermediate English

According to the Global State of Democracy Report 2025, press freedom has suffered its steepest decline in half a century. Conducted by International IDEA, the study analyzed 174 countries and found that one in four experienced deterioration in media freedom.

The worst cases were Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, and Myanmar, all struggling with conflict, poverty, and instability. South Korea also saw a sharp decline under former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who targeted critical media through lawsuits and political pressure.

Other countries faced different challenges. New Zealand’s media industry has shrunk, concentrating most journalists in a handful of employers. In Gaza, almost 200 journalists have been killed since 2023, while Israel has blocked independent foreign press access. Al Jazeera was suspended by both Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

However, some improvements were noted. Chile advanced by introducing laws to safeguard journalists, while parts of Africa, including Botswana and South Africa, recorded progress. Jordan’s elections and reforms in Poland were also praised. The report criticized the U.S. for reducing democracy support globally, weakening international efforts.