Afghan Journalists Face Escalating Repression on World Press Freedom Day 2025
May 4, 2025
PEC Demands Global Action on Rising Journalist Killings
May 4, 2025
May 04, 2024 – Nepal –
Press freedom in Nepal has significantly deteriorated over the past year, with a notable increase in violations against journalists and media professionals. According to the Annual Press Freedom Report 2025 released by Freedom Forum Nepal, there were 88 reported incidents affecting 88 journalists, including two fatalities. This marks a rise from the previous year’s 60 incidents. The slain journalists were Suresh Rajak, a photojournalist with Avenues Television, who died after being trapped in a burning building during a protest in Kathmandu, and Suresh Bhul, a reporter for Sudurpati Online and a Right to Information activist, who was beaten to death in Kailali District.
The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) recorded 73 incidents of press freedom violations between May 4, 2024, and April 30, 2025. These included 16 cases of professional insecurity, 20 assaults, and 24 incidents of misbehavior and threats. The FNJ condemned these attacks and called for a safer environment for journalists.
Media Action Nepal’s Annual Press Freedom Report titled “From Intimidation to Impunity: Rising Threats against Media in Nepal” highlighted similar concerns. The report documented various violations of press freedom and freedom of expression, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms to protect journalists and uphold press freedom in the country.
These developments underscore the pressing need for comprehensive legal reforms and stronger protections for journalists to ensure the free and independent functioning of the media in Nepal.
Reference –
