Source– This post on World Press Freedom Index 2023 is based on the article “India press freedom score fell over the last year: RSF” published in “The Indian Express” on 4th May 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, World Press Freedom Index 2023 was released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). India’s ranking has dropped to 161 out of 180 countries.
About World Press Freedom Index 2023:
| Aspects | Description |
| About | The World Press Freedom Index (WPFI) is an annual ranking of countries compiled and published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). |
| Purpose | It compares the level of freedom enjoyed by journalists and media in 180 countries and territories. |
| Methodology | RSF evaluates countries based on various indicators related to press freedom. These indicators include- a) media independence b) legal framework c) safety of journalists |
| Indicators | The ranking is based on five Indicators- Political, legislative, economic, sociocultural and safety of journalists. |
Highlights of the World Press Freedom Index 2023
1. Brief Overview of Ranking- According to the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, the situation is “very serious” in 31 countries, “difficult” in 42, “problematic” in 55, and “good” or “satisfactory” in 52 countries. Norway has maintained its top ranking in the World Press Freedom Index, for the seventh consecutive year.
2. Status of India’s Ranking- India’s press freedom ranking stands at 161 out of 180 countries. This marks a decline from “problematic” to “very bad,” with an 11-rank drop since the 2022 report.
| India’s Indicator Wise Rankings | |
| Political indicators | 169 |
| Legislative indicators | 144 |
| Economic indicator | 155 |
| Social indicator | 143 |
| Safety of journalists | 172 |
3. Neighbouring countries of India having higher rankings- All neighboring countries have higher rankings than India, with the exceptions of Bangladesh (163), Myanmar (173), and China (179). Bhutan ranks at 90, Nepal at 95, Sri Lanka at 135, Pakistan at 150, and Afghanistan at 152.
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