ISLAMABAD: The year 2025 has proved the most deadly for journalists, as 67 journalists were killed in this year. Reporters without Borders (RSF) revealed the shocking casualties of journalists.
The organization released its latest findings on Tuesday (Dec 9). The deaths occurred between December 2024 and early December 2025. The number remained comparable to the previous 12-month period. The report highlights ongoing global threats to press freedom.
Gaza Strip Remains the Most Dangerous Region
The Gaza Strip remained the deadliest region for journalists. Twenty-nine reporters lost their lives there during the review period. Continued conflict has created extreme dangers for media workers. Furthermore, Mexico followed as the second most dangerous country. Nine journalists died there, many due to criminal networks. The report stresses that violence against journalists continues without sufficient accountability.
Calls for Global Action
RSF officials urged governments to protect journalists more effectively. Anja Osterhaus, RSF head in Germany, issued a clear warning. She stated that every attack on journalists threatens free access to information. She emphasized that democratic societies depend on unhindered reporting. She also said governments must respond before more freedoms collapse. Her comments underline the urgent need for stronger protections worldwide.
Hundreds of Journalists Remain Imprisoned
The report recorded 503 journalists currently in prison in 62 countries. The number showed a slight decline from the previous year. China holds the most detained reporters with 121 cases. Russia follows with 48 imprisoned journalists. Myanmar holds 47 reporters, many detained for political reasons. Russia also detains the highest number of foreign journalists. It holds 26 Ukrainians, while Israel detains 20 Palestinians.
Many Journalists Still Missing
The RSF report also lists 135 missing media staff worldwide. Some have been missing for more than 30 years. Reporters disappeared in 137 countries during various conflicts. Most missing cases occurred in the Middle East and Latin America. Syria suffered heavily under the rule of Bashar Al-Assad. Many journalists vanished during the Syrian conflict and remain unaccounted for. Islamic State also kidnapped numerous journalists who remain missing. Mexico ranked second for missing reporters, reflecting ongoing threats from criminal groups.
