Today, 30 April, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) published its annual press freedom index, in which Estonia ranked 3rd.
According to Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna, the country’s continued high ranking confirms Estonia’s enduring commitment to safeguarding a free and independent press and protecting freedom of expression. At the same time, a free press can never be taken for granted – it requires consistent effort and attention from the whole of society.
“Independent media are the foundation of democracy,” Tsahkna stressed. “The role of journalists in providing reliable information, shaping public debate and ensuring a diversity of opinions is invaluable. In the face of growing disinformation and malicious influence activities, it is especially important to support and protect independent and critical journalists in order to prevent social fragmentation, the erosion of trust and the entrenchment of false narratives.”
The foreign minister added that, for this reason, the public and private sectors, as well as civil society organisations, must work consistently to ensure that a pluralistic and diverse public space is maintained in the future.
Tsahkna noted that this is precisely why Estonia has made the protection of media freedom one of its central priorities as a member of the UN Human Rights Council for the period 2026–2028. “Since the restoration of independence, Estonia has built a free and independent information society,” he said. “We wish to share our experience in promoting press freedom and shaping a diverse media environment at the international level, and to ensure that no one’s voice goes unheard.”
World Press Freedom Day will be marked this Sunday, 3 May.
Additional information
Communication Department
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