Japan's standing in the "Press Freedom" ranking, as published by the international non-governmental organization "Reporters Without Borders" on January 3, 2024, has declined compared to the previous year, now placing at 70th, the lowest among G7 nations.
According to the 2024 Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, Norway holds the top position globally, followed closely by Denmark. Japan's ranking at 70th is lower than its previous position of 68th, placing it at the bottom among G7 countries.
Reporters Without Borders highlights that in Japan, "tradition, commercial interests, political pressure, and gender inequality often hinder journalists from fully exercising their role as watchdogs."
The organization also notes that "in Japan, both the government and corporations frequently exert pressure on mainstream media, leading to strict self-censorship regarding sensitive topics like corruption, sexual harassment, health issues, and pollution."
The report criticizes this year's global trends, highlighting a clear lack of political will in the international community to protect journalists, citing the deaths of over 100 journalists in the Gaza Strip under the authority of the Palestinian power.
