theguardian.com
Global Press Freedom Suffers Sharpest Decline in 50 Years Amidst Democracy's Weakening
A landmark report reveals the sharpest decline in global press freedom in 50 years, coinciding with a significant weakening of democracy in 94 countries over the last five years, according to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA).
- What is the most significant finding of the International IDEA's Global State of Democracy Report 2025 regarding press freedom?
- The report reveals the sharpest decline in global press freedom in 50 years, affecting a quarter of the countries surveyed. This deterioration is most pronounced in Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, and Myanmar due to conflict and instability, and also notably in South Korea due to government actions against critical media.
- How does the report contextualize the decline in press freedom, and what are some examples of differing challenges faced by media outlets in various regions?
- The report highlights diverse challenges. In New Zealand, media consolidation threatens press freedom; in Palestine, almost 200 journalists have been killed since October 2023, and Israel's blockade restricts access for international press; while Al Jazeera faced suspension by both Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
- What are the broader implications of this decline in press freedom and democracy, and what potential solutions or positive developments are highlighted in the report?
- The weakening of democracy and press freedom globally undermines international democratization efforts, as exemplified by reduced US diplomatic and financial support for democracy assistance. Positive developments include progress in some African countries like Botswana and South Africa, electoral improvements in Jordan and Poland, and Chile's advancements in protecting journalists. Expanding voting rights for citizens abroad is suggested as a potential solution to reinforce democracy.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The report presents a balanced view by highlighting both positive and negative developments in global democracy and press freedom. While it emphasizes the sharp decline in press freedom, it also acknowledges positive developments in countries like Chile, Botswana, and South Africa. The inclusion of both perspectives prevents a one-sided narrative.
Bias by Omission
While the report is comprehensive, covering 174 countries, it might benefit from a deeper dive into the specific factors contributing to the decline in press freedom in certain regions or countries. For example, the report mentions economic factors but could elaborate on their role in more detail. Due to the scope of the report, some level of omission is unavoidable.
Sustainable Development Goals
The report highlights a sharp decline in press freedom globally, indicating a weakening of democratic institutions and the rule of law. This directly impacts SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. The decline in press freedom undermines accountability, fuels corruption, and hinders the ability of citizens to participate meaningfully in democratic processes. Specific examples cited, such as the targeting of journalists in South Korea and the killings of journalists in Palestine, illustrate the direct threat to safety and justice for those who seek to hold power accountable. The reduction in US diplomatic and financial support for international democracy assistance further weakens global efforts to promote strong institutions.