Journalists in Trouble

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s (RFE/RL) mission is to promote democratic values and institutions by reporting the news in countries where a free press is banned by the government or not fully established. Our journalists provide what many people cannot get locally: accurate news, responsible discussion, and open debate.

Of the 21 countries in which RFE/RL broadcasts, none has received a “free” press designation in Freedom House's annual survey of media freedom. Seven have been labeled “partly free,” and the remaining 14 are unequivocally “not free.”

Because of the work they do, RFE/RL journalists, contributors, and bureau staff members risk intimidation, physical harm, and imprisonment. The Journalists in Trouble page reports on incidents targeting RFE/RL reporters and our non-RFE/RL colleagues in an effort to raise awareness about their situation, mobilize support on their behalf, and document the high price of reporting in places where the media is unfree.