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RSF 2026 Index: Mexico Most Dangerous for Journalists as Global Press Freedom Hits 25-Year Low

The report blames organized-crime violence, impunity, weak state protections for Mexico's crisis.

Overview

  • RSF’s 2026 World Press Freedom Index names Mexico the deadliest place for reporters, placing it 160th of 180 on safety and 122nd overall.
  • The group counts more than 150 journalists killed and 28 missing in Mexico since 2000, with nine murders in 2025 and at least 10 victims even under state protection.
  • RSF links most attacks to organized crime and impunity, noting hot spots in Guerrero, Veracruz, Michoacán and Tamaulipas.
  • Across Latin America, rankings fell in many countries, with Peru down to 144 after four journalist killings in 2025 and Argentina lower after rising institutional hostility toward the press.
  • Globally, the index records its worst scores in 25 years, driven by legal crackdowns and digital threats such as AI-fueled disinformation.