Half of the World’s Population at Risk: Press Freedom Violations Continue to Threaten Journalists in Five of the World’s Most Populous Countries

More than half of the world’s population resides in areas with significant restrictions on press freedom, putting journalists at risk. In contrast, only a small percentage of the global population lives in places where press freedom is considered satisfactory. According to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index map, 36 countries with sizable populations have been identified as particularly dangerous for journalists. This includes five of the world’s most populous countries: India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Russia.

Interestingly, all of these countries held elections either in 2023 or the early months of 2024. However, instead of improving the situation for journalists, the elections further exacerbated press freedom violations. As a result, these countries remained placed in the lower portion of the World Press Freedom Index rankings. The continued suppression of journalists and their safety remains a major concern around the world.