Ghana Climbs to 39th in Global Press Freedom Index
GJA hails improved ranking, calls for stronger protections for journalists
- Ghana rises from 52nd to 39th in the latest World Press Freedom Index.
- GJA credits reforms, advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration for the improvement.
- Association urges stronger protection for journalists and legal reforms to prevent abuse of media laws.
Ghana has recorded a significant improvement in the World Press Freedom Index, moving up from 52nd position to 39th globally in the latest rankings published by Reporters Without Borders.
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) welcomed the development, describing it as a reflection of sustained efforts by media stakeholders, civil society, and government partners to strengthen press freedom in the country.
In a statement issued to mark World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2026, and signed by GJA General Secretary Dominic Hlordzi, the association said Ghana’s progress places it fourth in Africa and highlights improvements across all five key indicators used in the index assessment.
The GJA commended President John Dramani Mahama for his personal commitment to improving media freedom, noting that his support, alongside that of other stakeholders, contributed to the country’s upward movement in the rankings.
It also praised journalists, media organisations, civil society groups, and international partners for working together to create a more enabling environment for journalism.
While celebrating the achievement, the association stressed that more work remains to be done to fully safeguard press freedom in Ghana.
It urged the government and the Ghana Police Service to ensure that attacks on journalists are thoroughly investigated and that perpetrators are held accountable, warning against a culture of impunity.
The GJA also called for legal reforms, including a review of provisions in laws such as the Electronic Communications Act, 2008, which it said are sometimes used to intimidate journalists.
According to the association, such reforms would strengthen media freedom, enhance public trust, and further improve Ghana’s global standing.
This year’s World Press Freedom Day was observed under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace,” which the GJA said underscores the importance of free expression in building inclusive and stable societies.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to “speaking truth to power” and holding duty-bearers accountable without fear or favour, as it continues advocacy for a stronger media environment.
As part of the commemoration, the GJA announced plans to host a national event later in the month to honour journalists and institutions contributing to media development and democratic accountability.
Meanwhile, GJA President Albert Dwumfour is leading a delegation to Paris for the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) Centenary Congress, where global media leaders will discuss issues such as artificial intelligence, safety of journalists, gender equality, and the future of journalism.
