Sierra Leone has dropped 23 places in the 2026 world press freedom rankings, as media conditions worldwide decline to their lowest point in 25 years, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
In its report, RSF notes that more than half of the world’s population now lives in countries where journalism and access to information are increasingly being criminalised under restrictive national security and cybercrime laws.
Sierra Leone, which had recorded significant progress in recent years, is now ranked 79th globally, down from 56th position in 2025. The decline comes despite earlier reforms, including the repeal of criminal libel laws by President Julius Maada Bio during his first term in office.
RSF observed that “although press offences were decriminalised during President Julius Maada Bio’s first term, several press freedom violations have been observed since his reelection in 2023.” The report states that while journalists in the country are generally free to investigate a wide range of topics, including politically sensitive issues, they often face difficulties accessing information from public institutions.
The organisation also highlighted growing concerns about the role of digital platforms, noting that social media is increasingly being used to spread political propaganda, disinformation, and hate speech.
On the safety of journalists, RSF warned that election periods remain particularly volatile. “Elections are often marked by violence against journalists, especially by political activists, and by fear of Internet shutdowns,” the report states. It adds that journalists are not immune to harassment and arrests by police, who may confiscate their equipment. They also face threats, online intimidation campaigns, and even attempted murder when covering sensitive investigations.
Reacting to the report, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) said serious concerns have arisen over legislations such as the Cybersecurity and Crime Act and the Counter-Terrorism Act, which have the potential to criminalise legitimate journalistic expression and dissent in the digital space.
The association noted that digital threats, harassment and intimidation of journalists, including gendered online abuse targeting female journalists, are creating a chilling effect on participation and expression within the media landscape. It therefore advocated for the inclusion of a standalone chapter in the national constitution to guarantee press freedom in Sierra Leone.
The findings place renewed focus on the challenges facing Sierra Leone’s media landscape, even as the country continues to be recognised for past legislative reforms aimed at strengthening press freedom.
