Press freedom around the world continues to decline. A new UNESCO report on global trends in freedom of expression and media development shows that levels of freedom of expression have fallen by 10 per cent since 2012. The report will be presented in Stockholm on 19 March and can be followed via livestream.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
UNESCO\u2019s World Trends Report on Freedom of Expression and Media Development 2025: Journalism: Shaping a World at Peace<\/em> analyses global developments between 2022 and 2025. It is published every four years, and this time it underscores the profound role of free and professional journalism as a cornerstone of democratic life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe report demonstrates UNESCO\u2019s role as a central global actor in defending freedom of expression. It is the only report produced by a multilateral organisation that focuses exclusively on global trends in freedom of expression \u2013 and on why continued protection and promotion is urgently needed\u201d, says Maria Wilenius, Secretary-General of the Swedish National Commission for UNESCO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The report is painting a dire situation for freedom of expression globally. Since 2012, global levels of freedom of expression have declined by 10 per cent. This sharp downward trend highlights the need for sustained dialogue on the pressures facing journalists and media workers worldwide, including here in the Nordic region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cParticularly worrying are the growing levels of self-censorship among journalists and UNESCO\u2019s observation that governments around the world are stepping up efforts to control and restrict the media. These are developments we must monitor closely in our own region\u201d, Wilenius continues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n But the report also identifies positive developments. UNESCO notes a rise in cross\u2011border investigative journalism, strengthening democratic oversight. In addition, around 1.5 billion more people were expected to gain access to the Internet and digital platforms between 2020 and 2025. This expansion increases opportunities for freedom of expression and access to information \u2013 both fundamental human rights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The presentation of the report is organised by the Swedish National Commission for UNESCO, International IDEA, and UNESCO. The event takes place on 19 March, 15:00\u201316:30 (CET). Participation is possible on site in Stockholm or via livestream, and prior registration is required for both. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe are very proud that Sweden has been a long\u2011standing partner to UNESCO in its work on freedom of expression and media development. With our long history of press freedom, we have both the credibility and the responsibility to lead by example and support these issues globally\u201d, says Wilenius. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\nPresentation in Stockholm <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Report Launch – Journalism: Shaping a World at Peace<\/h6>
Attend the presentation on site in Stockholm <\/h2>