The Media Research Institute (MRi) said Ghana’s performance in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index is encouraging, but does not quite meet expectations, even though the country has made notable progress in the global rankings.
According to Reporters Without Borders’ (RSF) most recent study, released to mark World Press Freedom Day in 2026, Ghana moved up 13 spots from 52nd in 2025 to 39th globally in 2026, and placed sixth in Africa.
MRi praised stakeholders for their efforts and acknowledged the advancement, adding, however, that they are insufficient to fully represent Ghana’s potential or its historical position as the continent’s leader in democracy and media freedoms.
”…whilst Ghana’s latest ranking on the World Press Freedom Index is a positive stride worth a pat on the shoulder, it is not impressive to warrant a wave of a white handkerchief, given the country’s potential to do better and pedigree as a pacesetter in Africa’s emancipation at all fronts,” MRi stated.
The Institute noted Ghana’s score rose by 5.07 percentage points, from 67.13 in 2025 to 72.20 in 2026, but contended that the gain in numbers did not reflect a substantial improvement in the state of press freedom.
Mixed performance was also found when the assessment indicators were broken down. Ghana ranked 29th in the world for both the Political and Legal categories, indicating a respectable level of performance.
Nonetheless, the nation fell short on the Economic (50th), Social (49th), and Security (60th) metrics, underscoring ongoing difficulties in the media environment.
MRi therefore cautioned that Ghana’s performance in this year’s rankings should not breed complacency.
The Institute emphasised that press freedom issues still exist in the country and urged persistent efforts to build on recent successes.
Additionally, it cautioned against using legislative frameworks to restrict press freedom and urged authorities, especially the government, to refrain from taking any steps that would jeopardise media independence.
Therefore, our joint resolve should be focused on improving going forward and consolidating the small advances already accomplished. In this sense, we ought to abstain from actions and behaviour that compromise press freedom.
MRi particularly cautioned the government against weaponizing the law and free speech.
According to MRi, this year’s worldwide theme, “Shaping a Future of Peace,” emphasises how important responsible media is in promoting communication and resolving disputes both domestically and globally.
The Institute ended by praising Ghanaian media professionals and journalists for their ongoing commitment to educating the people, bolstering democracy, and promoting national development.
