SLAPPs and abuse of journalists are causing the UK to slip down the ranks of the World Press Freedom Index. But news organisations do have the power to affect change
Subscribe to the Journalism.co.uk podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud and Spotify
This week marked World Press Freedom Day, a chance to reflect on the barriers to a free press around the world.
Seven out of ten countries have some degree of bad press freedom, according to the latest World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters San Frontiers (Reporters Without Borders).
In this week's episode of the Journalism.co.uk podcast, UK bureau director Fiona O'Brien discusses the topline takeaways of the index and zones in on the situation in the UK.
The UK drops two places due to the continued use of the legal system to silence investigative journalism and the persistent abuse and harassment of journalists, particularly women. Both are issues the UK Government has pledged to combat but as yet still has unfulfilled promises, not least because of constant leadrship changes.
The UK is, however, still in a more privileged position than most countries and that news organisations can affect change. Tune in to find out how.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
Award-winning publication with national and international audience seeks experienced reporter to lead its coverage of Asian higher education
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Cargo Force stuns the world: free 10kg shipping to India in celebration of ICC Trophy victory – offer ongoing until Sunday, 16 March!
Our 35th Newsrewired conference will be held 13 May 2025, News UK, London.
Balance quality content with strategic growth
A new report by FT Strategies and smartocto reveals how newsrooms are increasing relevance, engagement and revenue by focusing on why readers consume news rather than what journalists think is important
The Scandinavian media company is using innovative tools, including bullet-pointed explainers embedded in crime stories, to rebuild trust among young audiences and counter growing news avoidance
How do the likes of DER SPIEGEL and L'Equipe turn fly-by readers into loyal subscribers? The Audiencer's Madeleine White dives into top case studies, best practices and benchmarks
