Ghana has improved its position in the World Press Freedom Index, climbing to 39th out of 180 countries in the latest ranking. This represents an advancement from 52nd position in 2025 and 62nd in 2023, with Ghana ranking fourth on the African continent. The improvement has been attributed to consistent advocacy, institutional commitment, and collaboration among key stakeholders. The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has welcomed the development, but urged stakeholders not to become complacent.
The GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has cautioned that Ghana's international standing alone should not be regarded as the ultimate indication of the country's commitment to press freedom. He emphasized that the true measure of press freedom is whether journalists can investigate corruption, question public officials, report on security operations, and hold powerful institutions accountable without intimidation or fear. Dwumfour made these remarks at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra.
Despite the improvement in Ghana's ranking, journalists in the country continue to face significant challenges. These include safety threats, financial insecurity, concerns over media independence, and the need for continuous professional development. The GJA has recorded over 50 cases of attacks and harassment against journalists, highlighting the need for greater protection and support for media practitioners.
The World Press Freedom Index is an annual publication by Reporters Without Borders that evaluates the state of press freedom across 180 countries and territories. The index provides a comprehensive assessment of the challenges facing journalists and media organizations, and offers recommendations for improvement. Ghana's improvement in the index reflects the country's commitment to press freedom and democratic expression.
The GJA President has called for efforts to protect the gains made while confronting the longstanding issues affecting journalists and media organisations. He emphasized the need for sustained advocacy, institutional commitment, and engagement among stakeholders to consolidate the gains and address persistent challenges. Dwumfour expressed optimism that Ghana could secure a higher position in the next edition of the index.
The GJA has set a target of breaking into the top three in the next edition of the World Press Freedom Index. Dwumfour expressed confidence that Ghana could become a leading example of press freedom and democratic expression in Africa. He urged stakeholders to work together to address the challenges facing journalists and media organisations, and to promote a culture of press freedom and accountability.
The improvement in Ghana's press freedom ranking is a positive development, but it is clear that more work needs to be done to address the challenges facing journalists and media organisations. The GJA and other stakeholders must continue to advocate for press freedom and work to create a safer and more supportive environment for media practitioners.
Key points
- Ghana climbed to 39th out of 180 countries in the latest World Press Freedom Index ranking.
- Journalists in Ghana face safety threats, financial insecurity, and concerns over media independence.
- The GJA aims to see Ghana break into the top three in the next edition of the World Press Freedom Index.
