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Poland jumps in press freedom ranking as U.S. slips

04.05.2025 10:00
Poland has climbed 16 spots in the annual World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, reaching 31st place out of 180 countries - a sharp improvement from 66th in 2022.
A journalist holds a placard during a rally for the defense of press and freedom of expression in front of the National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists headquarters in Tunis, Tunisia, on May 3, 2025, for World Press Freedom Day. On the left, a quote from George Orwell.
A journalist holds a placard during a rally for the defense of press and freedom of expression in front of the National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists headquarters in Tunis, Tunisia, on May 3, 2025, for World Press Freedom Day. On the left, a quote from George Orwell.Photo: MOHAMED MESSARA/PAP/EPA; X/@anil317

The shift marks a continued rebound following years of decline under the former United Right government.

Dr. Anna Adamska-Gallant, a judge at the European Court of Human Rights, noted on Polish Radio 24 that independent media play a crucial role in sustaining democratic societies.

This year’s index is topped by Norway, Estonia, and the Netherlands. At the bottom are China, North Korea, and Eritrea. The report also highlights a global crisis in journalism: newsrooms in 160 countries are facing financial strain, while traditional media lose ground to digital platforms.

Polish Radio’s White House correspondent, Marek Wałkuski, pointed out that “the U.S. has dropped to 57th place.”

Reporters Without Borders describe an “authoritarian shift” in the U.S., citing persistent attacks on the press by Donald Trump and efforts to undermine media critical of the president.

World Press Freedom Day was observed on May 3rd.

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Source: IAR/PR24/X/@Marekwalkuski/@AmericanGeo