PARIS — At least 67 journalists have been killed worldwide in the past 12 months in connection with their work, according to a new report released Tuesday by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Most of the fatalities were linked to conflicts, war zones, and criminal networks, highlighting the persistent dangers faced by media professionals globally.

The reporting period, spanning from December 2024 to December 2025, shows figures comparable to the previous year, underscoring ongoing risks to journalists’ safety.

Most Dangerous Regions for Journalists

The Gaza Strip remained the deadliest region, with 29 journalists killed, followed by Mexico, where nine media workers lost their lives.

RSF Germany head Anja Osterhaus emphasized the global implications of attacks on journalists:

“Every dead journalist and every detained reporter represents a warning that whoever attacks journalists is depriving all of us of the right to gain information without obstruction. When those who report critically have to fear for their freedom or even their lives, democracy is at stake worldwide.”

Journalists in Prison

Globally, 503 journalists are currently imprisoned in 62 countries, a slight decrease from the previous year. The countries holding the largest numbers of journalists include:

• China: 121
• Russia: 48
• Myanmar: 47

Russia is also holding the highest number of foreign journalists, primarily 26 Ukrainians, followed by Israel, which holds 20 Palestinian journalists.

Missing Media Personnel

In addition to those killed and imprisoned, 135 media staff are listed as missing, some for more than 30 years. Journalists have disappeared in 137 countries, with the highest numbers reported in the Middle East and Latin America.

Syria has been particularly dangerous, with many reporters going missing under the rule of Bashar Al-Assad, while others were taken hostage by Islamic State. Mexico ranks second for missing journalists, reflecting ongoing threats from criminal networks and organized crime.

Global Implications

The RSF report underscores the perilous conditions journalists face worldwide, particularly in conflict zones and countries with weak protections for press freedom. Advocates stress the need for stronger international action to ensure journalists can report safely and hold authorities accountable without fear of imprisonment or death.