Bhutan is facing a distressing trend in its press freedom ranking. The recent Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index revealed a stark decline, with Bhutan plummeting 57 places to the disconcerting position of 147th.
This significant regression from once being positioned at 33rd in 2022 demands introspection and concerted efforts to rectify the erosions in journalistic liberties.
The RSF report, a comprehensive assessment based on political, economic, legislative, social, and security indicators, underscores an alarming deterioration in Bhutan’s political indicator. This signals mounting political pressures on journalism, impeding the media’s ability to operate independently and fulfill its crucial role in upholding democratic principles.
The crux of the issue lies in the obstacles hindering journalists’ access to state-held and governmental information. The prevalence of self-censorship among journalists exacerbates the situation, stifling the free flow of information and hindering the media’s ability to hold power to account.
Additionally, the struggles faced by privately-owned publications, including limited readership and insufficient advertising revenue, further compound the challenges confronting Bhutanese media.
Echoing the concerns raised by the RSF report, journalists themselves have highlighted the pervasive climate of self-censorship and the daunting hurdles in accessing timely information. The chilling effect of fear, whether it be on reporters, interviewers, or sources, underscores a pressing need to safeguard journalistic freedoms and promote a culture of transparency and accountability.
The testimonials of journalists grappling with bureaucratic delays and obfuscation in accessing vital information paint a worrisome picture. The narratives of promises unfulfilled and crucial details withheld underscore systemic shortcomings that must be addressed to safeguard the integrity of Bhutan’s press landscape.
In the face of these challenges, the role of the government in nurturing a conducive environment for press freedom cannot be overstated. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s acknowledgment of the media’s indispensable role and commitment to supporting journalists is commendable. However, rhetoric must be matched with tangible actions to dismantle barriers to press freedom and foster a culture of openness and accountability.
The decline in Bhutan’s press freedom ranking is not merely a statistical anomaly but a reflection of broader societal trends and institutional deficiencies that warrant urgent attention. As custodians of democracy, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders โ government, media, civil society, and citizens โ to collectively uphold and defend the fundamental principles of press freedom.
Furthermore, Bhutan’s descent in the global press freedom index serves as a cautionary tale for other nations. In an era marked by increasing threats to journalistic freedoms worldwide, Bhutan’s experience underscores the fragility of press liberties and the vigilance required to safeguard them.
Ultimately, the pursuit of press freedom is not merely a matter of rankings and statistics but a fundamental pillar of democracy and human rights. Bhutan must heed this call and embark on a concerted effort to reverse the troubling trend of diminishing press freedoms, ensuring that the vibrant tapestry of voices within its media landscape continues to flourish unabated.
In the face of adversity, the resilience and determination of Bhutanese journalists serve as a beacon of hope. It is imperative that their unwavering commitment to truth and transparency be met with unwavering support and solidarity from all quarters.
