Cyprus Drops 12 Spots in Global Press Freedom Index

According to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index published by the international nonprofit Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Cyprus has dropped 12 places, falling from 65th in 2024 to 77th out of 180 countries this year.

The report raises serious concerns about the state of press freedom in Cyprus. The sharp decline is largely due to recent attempts by the Republic of Cyprus government to introduce legislation that could limit media freedom — legislation that could directly affect the ability of independent outlets to operate freely.

Other contributing factors include Turkey’s growing influence in the northern part of the island and the concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few powerful businessmen.

RSF’s analysis points to significant pressure from government officials, the church, and corporate interests as key forces undermining media pluralism. These pressures often lead journalists to practice self-censorship.

The report also highlights concerns over “direct editorial interference through informal relationships between politicians and media owners.”

When assessing the legal framework protecting media freedom, RSF concluded that Cyprus lacks strong safeguards to protect journalists and prevent political meddling.

Last year, the Cypriot government proposed a legal amendment that would allow for the criminal prosecution and possible imprisonment of journalists if the Attorney General — who is appointed by the President — deems their reporting to be “fake news.”

Concerns about media freedom intensified last month after it was revealed that the government attempted to introduce legislation that would legalize surveillance of journalists and potentially expose their sources.

RSF also noted a rise in verbal attacks on journalists by politicians, along with an increase in civil defamation lawsuits aimed at silencing critical reporting.