Freedom of expression index

In brief

Freedom of expression index: across 173 countries and territories, values range from 0.01 (North Korea) to 0.98 (Denmark), with a world median of 0.7. Data: 2025. The top 10% of countries exceed 0.92, while the bottom 10% stay below 0.11. By continent, the median is highest in Europe (0.85) and lowest in Asia (0.46).

Median by continent

Why this indicator matters

Expressing oneself, getting information and debating are at the heart of democratic life. This index makes it possible to compare, on a common scale, the space left for speech, the press and creative work.

What makes this indicator vary

The level depends on the political regime, media independence, the legal framework for the press, censorship and pressure on journalists or academics. It can change quickly during political crises.

Reading precautions

The index relies on expert assessments, with a margin of uncertainty. It combines several dimensions into a single number. It does not replace an analysis of specific cases, or of the laws specific to each area.