World Press Freedom Day Observed as RSF Releases 2025 Press Freedom Index

World Press Freedom Day highlighted severe challenges to journalism globally, with a key index showing a record low in press freedom scores. The annual index from Reporters Without Borders indicated that for the first time, more than half of all countries are classified as having difficult or very serious press freedom conditions.

Only one percent of the world's population lives in countries rated as good for press freedom.

XIV marked the day by condemning violations of media freedom and paying tribute to journalists killed in conflict zones. He addressed the crowd during his weekly Sunday prayer in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican.

“Today we celebrate World Press Freedom Day … unfortunately, this right is often violated, sometimes in blatant ways, sometimes in more hidden forms.”

The pontiff urged remembrance of journalists who lost their lives pursuing the truth, particularly in areas of war and violence. He described journalism as a pillar of society and democracy.

Christina Lamb, chief foreign correspondent at The Sunday Times, advocated for an independent body to investigate crimes against journalists. She discussed the issue in an interview, emphasizing the need amid rising threats. The report from Reporters Without Borders noted that the global average score is at a record low in its 25-year history.

Eritrea remains the most dangerous place for journalists according to the index.

A study by the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs’ Costs of War project found that one ongoing conflict has been the deadliest for media workers ever recorded. More journalists have been killed there than in both world wars, the Vietnam War, and other major conflicts combined.

Pope Leo XIV has previously called for the release of unfairly detained journalists and stated that their work should never be considered a crime.

“We remember the many journalists and reporters who have been victims of war and violence.”

The press freedom organization stated that journalism is increasingly criminalized worldwide. This year's findings mark the first time since 2002 that over half the world's countries fall into the difficult or very serious categories.