UNESCO report shows global decline in press freedom and safety

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 2 hours ago |  JP Global Monitoring Desk

UNESCO’s latest report shows a marked global decline in press freedom and journalist safety, rising self‑censorship, and fragile media business models undermining independent journalism worldwide.

Summary

PARIS — A new UNESCO World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development report reveals a significant global deterioration in press freedom and the safety of journalists, highlighting rising self‑censorship and economic pressures on media outlets. The findings signal growing challenges for independent journalism in a shifting global media landscape. 

The report shows that 85 percent of the world’s population has experienced a decline in press freedom in their country over recent years. Journalists face mounting threats to their safety from both physical and digital pressures, and traditional media business models are being eroded as audiences and advertising shift to dominant technology platforms. 

Global drop in press freedom trends and threats to journalists

The UNESCO report underlines that legal restrictions on freedom of expression have increased, with dozens of countries adopting or amending laws that undermine online and offline press freedoms. Data also points to record levels of journalist imprisonment and persistent violence against media workers.

Economic fragility is a central concern, as advertising revenue continues to concentrate in a small number of digital platforms, forcing many outlets to reduce staff or close altogether. This shift threatens pluralism and the ability of independent media to sustain robust reporting. 

Rising self-censorship and implications for democracy

The report notes that increasing threats have driven higher levels of self‑censorship among journalists, particularly when covering sensitive issues. Fragile legal protections and heightened surveillance contribute to a media environment where critical reporting is increasingly constrained.

UNESCO and press freedom advocates argue that these trends undermine the core democratic principle of free expression and call for enhanced protective mechanisms for journalists and innovation in media funding to preserve a diverse and independent press. 

KEY POINTS:

• UNESCO report finds 85 percent of the world’s population has seen press freedom decline in their country over recent years
• Journalists face increased threats to safety, legal restrictions, and rising self‑censorship
• Economic pressures from dominant tech platforms weaken traditional media business models
• Independent journalism is at risk without protective mechanisms and funding innovation

ATTRIBUTION: Information sourced from UNESCO and global media freedom research organizations

PHOTO: AI‑generated; for illustrative purposes only.