Global Press Freedom Plummets to 50-Year Low Amid Widespread Democratic Erosion

Global Press Freedom Suffers Sharpest Fall in 50 Years, Report Finds Stockholm - Global press freedom has suffered its sharpest decline in 50 years, with a landmark report revealing that democracy has weakened dramatically worldwide. According to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), democracy has declined in 94 countries over the last five years, while only a third have made progress. The report, released earlier this month, found that press freedom is under threat globally, with journalists facing increasing violence, harassment, and intimidation. The survey of democratic markers also highlighted the rise of populist leaders who are undermining democratic institutions and norms. "We're seeing a perfect storm of autocratic resurgence and acute uncertainty," said Kevin Casas-Zamora, secretary-general of IDEA. "Massive social and economic changes have created an environment in which democracy is struggling to adapt." The report noted that the United States has been offering encouragement to populist leaders, who are increasingly using authoritarian tactics to consolidate power. This trend is evident in countries such as Hungary, Poland, and Turkey, where democratic institutions are being eroded. In Colombia, journalists demonstrated outside the EFE news agency offices earlier this month to denounce the killing of journalists in Gaza. Photograph: Mauricio Dueñas Castañeda/EPA The report's findings have sparked concern among human rights groups and democracy advocates worldwide. "This is a wake-up call for democracies around the world," said Maria Repnikova, a professor at Georgia State University who specializes in media and politics. "We need to take action to protect key elements of democracy, such as free and fair elections." The report's authors emphasized that the decline of press freedom is closely tied to the erosion of democratic institutions. "When journalists are silenced or intimidated, it sends a signal that the government is not committed to transparency and accountability," said Casas-Zamora. The current status of global democracy is dire, with only 25 countries showing significant progress in recent years. The report's authors warned that the trend could continue unless democratic governments take concrete steps to protect press freedom and strengthen democratic institutions. As the world grapples with the challenges facing democracy, IDEA has called on governments to prioritize democratic reforms and support independent media outlets. "We need to work together to build a more inclusive and participatory democracy," said Casas-Zamora. *Reporting by Theguardian.*