RSF raises alarm over deteriorating press freedom in Guinea, Burkina Faso: Video
Press freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has issued a warning about the worsening environment for journalists in Guinea and Burkina Faso as it released its 2025 World Press Freedom Index on Thursday.
Burkina Faso, in particular, has experienced a dramatic decline, dropping 19 places in the global rankings to 105th out of 180 countries, down from 86th in 2024 and 58th just two years ago. RSF describes the situation as a “freefall.”
“In Burkina Faso, journalists and columnists who are critical of the government are now being forcibly removed and taken to the frontline, ostensibly to observe ‘the reality on the ground,’ a situation that is quite simply unique on the continent,” said Camille Montagu, RSF’s research officer for sub-Saharan Africa.
The report also highlights a climate of fear and surveillance in Guinea, where journalists face mounting risks. “Journalists who remain in the country are closely watched by the authorities. They can be followed in the street,” said Jeanne Lagarde, RSF’s Advocacy Officer for Sub-Saharan Africa, told the AFP.
“They are bearing witness to a deterioration in their security situation,” Lagarde pointed to the abduction of journalist Habib Marouane Camara on December 3 as a troubling example of the growing threats.
While both Guinea and Burkina Faso present serious concerns, there was some positive movement elsewhere in the region.
Senegal climbed 20 places to 74th in this year’s index, although RSF notes that long-standing issues persist, particularly regarding the economic sustainability of media outlets.
