Japan overtakes U.S. in global press freedom index

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.

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Japanese police enhance security at U.S. Embassy in Tokyo following U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran that killed Ayatollah Khamenei, as stock markets fall.
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U.S. and Israel strike on Iran prompts enhanced security in Japan

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U.S. and Israeli forces attacked Iran over the weekend in a massive assault that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the nation's supreme leader for nearly four decades. This triggered retaliatory strikes in the Middle East, prompting Japanese police to bolster security at U.S. and Israel-related facilities. Stock markets in Tokyo opened lower, and Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino stressed the need to monitor the situation.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) released its 2026 World Press Freedom Index, placing Mexico 122nd out of 180 countries. The group notes Mexico remains the deadliest country for journalism in Latin America for at least 15 years. RSF describes its two-place improvement from 2025 as illusory.

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A poll by Japan's Foreign Ministry revealed that 68.0% of respondents believe disinformation about international affairs is spreading online. The results suggest growing concern in the country about manipulation of information by foreign entities. Among those who detected such disinformation, 87.8% relied on Japanese news organizations to verify authenticity.

Tokyo stocks declined for a third consecutive day as tensions escalated in the Middle East over Iran. Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda warned of significant potential impacts on the economy, while the government stated there would be no immediate disruptions to oil supplies.

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Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi confirmed on Friday, March 6, that two Japanese nationals are detained in Iran. The government has been in contact with them since the U.S.-Israeli attack on the Middle Eastern country began on Saturday and has confirmed their safety. One is believed to be the head of NHK's Tehran bureau.

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