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Press Freedom in the US Classified as "Problematic" for the First Time
According to a new report by Reporters Without Borders, the level of press freedom in the United States has been downgraded to the "problematic" category for the first time — alongside countries like Gambia and Sierra Leone.
Reporters Without Borders has published its annual report, in which the United States was downgraded in the global press freedom ranking. For the first time in the history of observations, the country has been classified as having a "problematic" level of press freedom. This is the lowest rating ever for the United States in this classification, placing it on par with countries typically considered developing democracies or with unstable political systems.
The report emphasizes that the decline in rankings is due to increased pressure on journalists, including legal threats, restricted access to information, and a growing number of lawsuits against members of the press. There is also a noted rise in aggression toward media workers both from private individuals and during protest actions. According to the report's authors, the situation is worsening amid deepening political polarization and the spread of disinformation, further complicating journalists’ work.
Particular attention is given to data leaks involving investigative journalism. In some cases, journalists faced criminal prosecution or administrative pressure following the publication of materials involving government interests. In certain states, authorities have restricted the media’s ability to cover court proceedings, including limiting access to hearings and witnesses.
Technological platforms have also significantly influenced the deterioration of press freedom. News distribution algorithms, researchers say, have contributed to audience segmentation and increased distrust toward traditional media. This, in turn, has made journalists more vulnerable to public attacks. The report notes that platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok have played a role in distorting the information landscape, often helping to spread false information.
Since 2022, several US states have passed legislation restricting access to information in investigations related to governmental and local authorities' actions. This hampers journalists’ work, especially in anti-corruption reporting and law enforcement coverage. Some newsrooms have reported a decrease in the number of independent sources due to fears of potential consequences for whistleblowers.
US media organizations have expressed concern over the ranking results. Several statements emphasized the need to strengthen legal guarantees for press freedom and protect journalists from political pressure. Journalists’ unions also called on authorities to revise restrictive regulations and ensure greater transparency, especially in matters of public interest.
The report’s authors note that, despite constitutional protections for freedom of speech, actual working conditions for media in the US in some cases do not reflect those stated principles. International experts stress that the resilience of democracy depends directly on the press’s ability to operate freely in its role of oversight and accountability.
The US’s current position in the Reporters Without Borders ranking may impact the country's image in international relations. Analysts suggest that the decline in press freedom weakens the US position in global debates on human rights and freedom of speech. Additionally, it may be used in diplomatic arguments by countries with restricted press freedoms that have traditionally been criticized by US diplomats.
The situation continues to evolve. The report’s findings are expected to be discussed in Congress and relevant committees dealing with information policy and human rights. US administration officials have yet to comment on the newly published ranking.
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