In the latest 2025 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Iran remains one of the world’s most repressive countries for journalists and the media, ranking 176th out of 180 countries. With a total score of 16.22, Iran has seen a sharp deterioration across almost every metric compared to 2024, particularly in political, legal, and social freedoms.
A Country in Decline: Year-on-Year Comparison
| Indicator | 2024 Rank | 2025 Rank | 2024 Score | 2025 Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political | 157 | 175 | 23.19 | 12.86 |
| Economic | 172 | 172 | 23.44 | 19.26 |
| Legislative | 174 | 175 | 20.03 | 16.78 |
| Social | 176 | 177 | 19.84 | 14.55 |
| Security | 176 | 173 | 20.02 | 17.66 |
The drop in political and legislative indicators is especially stark, highlighting the regime’s increasing intolerance toward any form of independent journalism.
Systematic Repression Since Mahsa Amini’s Death
Iran’s press freedom crisis has worsened dramatically since the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022, which triggered a nationwide protest movement. The Islamic Republic responded with heightened repression, arresting over 70 journalists, many of them women, in a campaign to silence coverage of the uprising. The regime’s tactics include arbitrary arrests, torture, long prison sentences, and even threats of execution.
Journalists are tried in revolutionary courts, where due process is routinely ignored. The crackdown has extended beyond Iran’s borders, with Iranian journalists abroad reporting online harassment and death threats.
Media Landscape: Controlled and Intimidated
Inside Iran, state-controlled media dominate the landscape, while independent journalism is under siege. The few remaining critical voices rely heavily on platforms and media outlets operating from abroad. The Islamic regime continuously targets these journalists through surveillance, intimidation, and the criminalization of their work.
Many journalists have been forced out of their jobs or had their outlets shut down. The economic toll is significant: amid unprecedented sanctions and systemic corruption, independent media have little to no chance of survival.
Legal Constraints: A Weapon Against Free Press
While Article 24 of Iran’s constitution nominally guarantees press freedom, it is rendered meaningless by a restrictive press law dating back to 1986. Amended to cover online publications, the law is designed to ensure that no publication “endangers the Islamic Republic,” “offends the clergy or Supreme Leader,” or “spreads false information.” These vague terms give authorities broad power to criminalize journalism.
Civil Society: A Beacon Dimmed
Iran’s youth and women continue to serve as drivers of change, pressing for fundamental freedoms, including the right to information. Yet, discussions around religion, gender, and social reform remain highly sensitive—and dangerous—for journalists. The regime has made it clear that dissent, especially when expressed through the media, will be crushed.
The Outlook: Dismal, but Not Defeated
Despite a worsening press environment, Iran’s civil society and diaspora journalists continue to resist. The RSF’s findings underscore the urgent need for international pressure and solidarity with Iran’s embattled journalists. As the regime tightens its grip, the fight for truth and freedom of expression becomes even more critical.
