The Most Dangerous Nations for Journalists in 2023

In 2023, the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) database recorded the tragic loss of 50 media professionals due to their journalistic duties.

Deadliest Locations for Journalists

Statista's Anna Fleck reveals that the Palestinian territories were the most perilous for journalists in the past year. In just the final quarter of the year, 16 deaths were recorded.

Additional Statistics

Other dangerous locations for journalists included Mexico, where four deaths were reported in 2023, followed by Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Lebanon, each with three deaths. Cameroon, Ukraine, and the Philippines each reported two deaths.

Single Death Reports

One journalist was also tragically killed in each of the following nations: Albania, China, Colombia, Honduras, India, Lesotho, Mali, Mozambique, Paraguay, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and the United States.

Disappearance Reports

Meanwhile, 109 individuals were reported as "missing" last year. The highest numbers of disappearances were recorded in Mexico (34), Syria (9), Russia (6), Pakistan (6), the Democratic Republic of Congo (5), and Kosovo (5).

Criteria for Listing Deaths

It's crucial to understand that the deaths of media professionals are only included in these statistics if the RSF confirms a connection to their journalistic work. This is why these numbers may appear low, and they may change as further fact-checking is conducted.

As we reflect on these sobering statistics, it's important to remember the risks that journalists around the world face in their quest to report the truth. What are your thoughts on this issue? Please share this article with your friends and engage in the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.