Overview

• The 2025 RSF Press Freedom Index reveals a historic decline, with 90 out of 180 countries rated as having 'difficult' or 'very serious' conditions for journalists.
• Germany has slipped from 10th to 11th place, citing a hostile environment for reporters, particularly those covering right-wing extremism and the AfD.
• Only seven countries, all in Europe, are rated as having a 'good' press freedom environment, with Norway, Estonia, and the Netherlands leading the rankings.
• Economic pressures remain a critical issue, with media outlets in 160 countries struggling to achieve financial sustainability, further weakening independent journalism.
• The Middle East and North Africa remain the most dangerous regions for journalists, with nearly 200 media workers killed in Gaza in 2024 alone.