The government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding freedom of the press, ensuring open access to information and fostering a media landscape where journalism can thrive in the digital age.

This in response to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders on which Jamaica declined in rank from 24 to 26.

180 countries are ranked.

In a statement, the information ministry cited the report’s assessment of Jamaica as being among the leading nations in the Caribbean in upholding media freedom.

Jamaica is ranked at number 2 in the Caribbean.

The report acknowledges Jamaica’s strong tradition of content independence, the absence of any journalist detention or fatality since the start of the year, and steady improvements in press freedom over the past two decades.

The ministry noted that Jamaica continues to boast a diverse media sector, both government and independently-owned.

It said the government holds no stake in the vast majority of media entities, which indicates Jamaica’s longstanding trend of media plurality and editorial freedom.

The 2025 index assigned Jamaica a score of 75.83.

This is a minor year-on-year decrease.

The government acknowledged this observation, adding that it remains open to continued engagement and collaboration with media professionals across all platforms.

The ministry said the government remains firmly committed to upholding freedom of expression, access to information, and the critical role of the press in strengthening democracy.

It said platforms such as the Post Cabinet Press Briefing, offer regular opportunities for dialogue between the media and public officials, while legislative and policy frameworks, such as the Access to Information Act and the Jamaica Information Service’s fact-checking initiatives, reinforce transparency and accountability, and broad efforts to enhance digital literacy across the nation.

This is being done through the finalization of a digital media and literacy framework to promote digital citizenship and media literacy among Jamaicans.

The ministry said the government continues to support a pluralistic media environment through robust legal protections and public forums for discussion.