The Office of the Prime Minister, OPM, has acknowledged Jamaica’s advancement in the Global Press Freedom Rankings. 

Jamaica moved up 8 places on the ranking as reported by the international organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF) today.

The press freedom rankings for 2024 place Jamaica at 24 out of 180 countries, up from 32 last year.

Rankings closer to 1 signify a free press, while rankings closer to 180, mean there are press restrictions.

In a press release, the OPM said the improved ranking is a testament to the nation’s commitment to creating a safe and open environment for journalists.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the improved ranking not only underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to media freedom, but also reflects the successful implementation of policies aimed at enhancing the flow of factual and timely information to citizens.

The RSF’s report highlights Jamaica’s consistent progress in protecting the right to information, a cornerstone of a dynamic democracy.

The Prime Minister noted that by continuing to support these foundational principles, Jamaica aims to maintain, and advance, its standing as a beacon of press freedom, on the global stage.

Meanwhile, Information Minister Robert Morgan, also welcomed the improvement in press freedom ranking, noting that Jamaica is ranked highest among Caribbean countries. 

He further noted that Jamaica remains committed to deepening its engagement with government bodies, media groups, and civil society to address new challenges and bolster the resilience of the press freedom landscape.