Freedom of expression has declined worldwide, Unesco reported on Monday. The Media Development Report shows a 10 percent drop since 2012. Unesco warned that freedom of expression now faces historic pressure. It urged governments to protect journalism and invest in media.
Meanwhile, journalists face rising physical, digital, and legal threats. Since 2018, hundreds of reporters have fled their countries. Environmental journalists face growing danger worldwide. Unesco recorded hundreds of attacks linked to environmental reporting.
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During 2022 to 2025, violence against journalists sharply increased. A total of 186 journalists died covering conflicts. In 2025 alone, 93 journalists were killed. Most cases still lack accountability despite global commitments.
At the same time, online harassment has surged rapidly. Women journalists remain the most targeted group. Research shows most women reporters faced online violence. These attacks damage trust and silence critical voices.
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However, some progress offers cautious hope. Digital access expanded for billions of people. Collaborative journalism and fact-checking efforts increased. Unesco stressed education and cooperation to defend freedom of expression globally.