EU says at least 129 journalists killed in past year, marks Press Freedom Day

The European Union has warned that violence against journalists remains a serious global concern, stressing that democracy cannot function without free and independent media, in a statement marking World Press Freedom Day.

The EU said that 129 journalists were killed in 2025 alone, bringing the total number of media workers killed since 1993 to 1,922, highlighting persistent risks faced by journalists worldwide.

World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on 3 May to emphasize freedom of expression and the role of media in democratic societies, an initiative established by the United Nations and UNESCO.

In its report, the EU reaffirmed that media freedom and diversity are essential pillars of democracy, warning that journalists continue to face legal, physical, and professional threats, with killings representing the most severe form of attack.

The bloc said it has adopted two major legal frameworks aimed at protecting journalists: one to prevent abusive lawsuits and legal harassment, and another known as the European Media Freedom Act to strengthen editorial independence and transparency.

EU officials said member states will implement these protections into national law to ensure journalists can work safely and without fear of intimidation or retaliation.

The latest World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders ranks Afghanistan 175th out of 180 countries, reflecting severe restrictions under Taliban rule.

RSF says Taliban authorities continue to impose strict controls on media, suppress critical reporting, and enforce propaganda narratives, leaving Afghanistan’s media environment in deep crisis.

The report also notes that Norway tops the global ranking for press freedom for the tenth consecutive year, while Eritrea remains at the bottom of the index for the third year running.

Separately, it highlights that more than 220 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, including at least 70 who died while carrying out professional duties, underscoring ongoing risks in conflict zones.

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