Afghanistan Plummets 53 Places in Global Press Freedom Index

Reporters Without Borders has announced that Afghanistan has dropped 53 ranks in the latest World Press Freedom Index, now standing at 175 out of 180 countries worldwide; a position only five places above Eritrea, the last country on the list.

The report, published on Thursday, April 28, reveals that freedom of expression and media worldwide has faced a severe and unprecedented decline over the past 25 years. However, Afghanistan’s situation has significantly worsened since the Taliban regained power in 2021.

According to the index, Afghanistan was ranked 122 before 2021 but is now classified among the most restricted media environments in the world. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, China, Iran, and North Korea rank below Afghanistan in this report.

Reporters Without Borders stated that over nearly five years, the Taliban administration has imposed a series of harsh regulations and directives aimed at controlling media activities and restricting freedom of expression. These limitations have led to the closure of numerous media outlets, widespread self-censorship, and increased pressure on journalists, especially women reporters.

The international organization warned that the decline in media freedom is concerning not only in Afghanistan but globally; however, Afghanistan’s experience stands out as a clear example of how restrictive policies can directly silence media voices and reduce citizens’ access to independent information.