By ophaniel.gooding@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – In a remarkable turn of events, Sierra Leone has surged in the latest Reporters Without Borders World Freedom Index, defying political pressures and soaring to new heights. From its previous position at 74th in 2023, Sierra Leone now stands proudly at 64th place in 2024, a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to press liberation.
But the struggle for free speech persists beyond Sierra Leone’s borders. Guinea joins the chorus of nations advocating for press freedom, making significant progress by ascending seven places from 85th in 2023 to a promising 78th in 2024. Similarly, Liberia refuses to succumb to silence, advancing from 66th to an impressive 60th place, while Ivory Coast inches forward from 54th to a steadfast 53rd.
Yet, amid these strides towards press freedom, a sombre reality prevails on the global stage. The 2024 World Press Freedom Index unveils a stark truth – political pressures continue to stifle the essence of free speech. With a global average decline of 7.6 points in the political indicator, the guardians of democracy find themselves shackled by the forces of authority.
In a world where truth hangs in the balance, the battle for press freedom wages on, with each ascent in the rankings symbolizing a triumph over oppression and a testament to the resilient spirit of journalism. OG/6/5/2024