The year 2025 proved to be one of the deadliest for journalists around the world. From war zones to quiet towns, reporters and media workers faced locked out,altercation, and departed. The rise in global journalist casualties highlights the growing coercion to press freedom and independent reporting.
Global Toll on Journalists Rises
A total of 128 journalists and media workers were killed worldwide in 2025. More than half of these deaths occurred in the Middle East, showing how conflicts and weak accountability systems continue to endanger the press.
Philippines Remains Risky
The Philippines recorded at least five journalist killings last year, mostly affecting local radio and community media. Victims included veteran publisher Juan “Johnny” Dayang in Aklan, radio commentators Erwin Segovia and Gerry Campos in Surigao del Sur, and broadcaster Noel Bellen Samar in Albay. Another former broadcaster in General Santos City also lost his life under investigation. Most attacks targeted coverage of politics, corruption, and local security issues.
Patterns of Impunity
The killings reflect a long-standing problem in the Philippines, where many journalists are vulnerable far from national scrutiny. Since 1986, over 200 media workers have been killed, with many cases unresolved and convictions rare. Violence against journalists persists despite protective laws and efforts.
Middle East Faces the Highest Deaths
The Palestinian territories experienced the largest number of journalist deaths, with 56 killed during Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza. Other countries with casualties included Yemen, Ukraine, Sudan, Peru, and India, illustrating the widespread dangers journalists face worldwide.
Journalists in Prison
By the end of 2025, 533 journalists were imprisoned globally, more than double the number recorded five years ago. China led in the number of jailed journalists, with 143 behind bars. In Europe, 149 journalists were imprisoned, mainly in Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Turkey, marking a nearly 40% increase from the previous year.
New Threats in Europe
Drone attacks became a lethal danger to reporters in Europe. Ukrainian and French journalists were deliberately targeted in drone strikes. Repression in Azerbaijan and Russia intensified, with independent media workers facing arrests, smear campaigns, and unfounded charges.
Continuing Danger for the Press
The rising numbers of killed and imprisoned journalists show that press freedom is under serious threat globally. Without sustained investigations, stronger protections, and international attention, independent reporting remains at risk, and media workers continue to face life-threatening challenges.
A Call for Awareness
The events of 2025 serve as a stark reminder that journalism is not just a profession, but a pursuit of truth that can come at a deadly cost. Protecting reporters worldwide remains critical to ensuring citizens have access to independent and credible information.
