Japan has overtaken the United States in the latest World Press Freedom Index from Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The report found press freedom has sunk to a 25-year low, with 52% of countries and territories categorized as in 'difficult' or 'very serious' situations.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) released its World Press Freedom Index on May 1, 2026, showing Japan ranking above the United States. The report, as covered by The Japan Times, highlights that global press freedom has reached its lowest level in 25 years.
It categorizes 52% of countries and territories as facing 'difficult' or 'very serious' situations. Keywords from the report include media, journalism, press freedom, and human rights.
While specific rankings and scores for Japan and the U.S. were not detailed in available information, the shift underscores ongoing challenges in the global media landscape.