2025: A Year of Escalating Threats to Press Freedom

Wed Dec 31 2025 09:54:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The year 2025 is projected to be one of the most dangerous years for journalists, marked by high rates of violence, government hostility, and a reduction in the number of working reporters. Insights from various experts highlight the dangers faced by the media and the implications for democratic processes.

In 2025, the global landscape for press freedom appears bleak. With a record number of journalists killed and escalating violence against reporters, many experts label this as the most aggressive assault on the press in modern times. In the U.S., Trump’s administration has faced criticism for its antagonistic treatment of journalists. The pressing concern now lies in the impunity surrounding these attacks, raising alarms about the future of investigative journalism and its critical role in democracy.

NEW YORK (AP) — By nearly any measure, 2025 has been a rough year for anyone concerned about freedom of the press.

It’s likely to be the deadliest year on record for journalists and media workers. The number of assaults on reporters in the U.S. nearly equals the last three years combined. President Trump has repeatedly targeted the press, calling out specific journalists in derogatory terms and continuously undermining their credibility.

“It’s safe to say this assault on the press over the past year has probably been the most aggressive that we’ve seen in modern times,” stated Tim Richardson, former Washington Post reporter.

Deadly Trends

Worldwide, the number of media persons killed in 2025 has reached 126, matching 2024's total, a record high. This alarming statistic is significantly attributed to the ongoing violence in conflict areas like Gaza.

Jodie Ginsberg of the Committee to Protect Journalists emphasized the dangers of violence against journalists, stating that impunity only perpetuates further violence. “A failure to address these killings fosters an environment where these acts become commonplace,” she remarked.

Assaults and Impunity

In the United States, 170 assaults against journalists have been reported, the majority from law enforcement, particularly in the context of immigration enforcement coverage. These increasing assaults reflect a troubling trend of hostility toward the press at a critical time for democracy.

Trump’s relationship with the press has been contentious, with many feeling that his actions have created a hostile environment for journalists. This trend includes punitive measures against media organizations and a diminishing public perception of the press.

Resilience Amidst Challenges

Despite the challenges facing mainstream media, the rise of independent news organizations has emerged as a beacon of resilience. Local outlets like The Baltimore Banner and Outlier Media are offering hope in a media landscape marred by layoffs and budget cuts.

“Over time, people will hopefully come to their senses and say, ‘Hey, the media like anything else is imperfect but, man, it’s a nice thing to have a free press,’” expressed Axios CEO Jim VandeHei. The need for a robust independent media system is more critical than ever, ensuring that citizens remain informed about the actions of those in power.

As the year proceeds, the plight of journalists serves as a reminder of the importance of press freedom and its indispensable role in a functioning democracy. It is imperative to continue advocating for the safety and autonomy of journalists globally.