Bangladesh dropped three places to 152nd out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, according to Reporters Sans Frontières, also known as Reporters Without Borders.
The watchdog described the country’s media environment as “very serious,” citing structural challenges after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party came to power following parliamentary elections.
The report said the Cyber Security Act remains a “draconian tool” allowing “warrantless arrests” and “violation of source confidentiality.”
It also said state-owned Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha lack editorial independence.
Reporters Without Borders said more than 130 journalists have faced unfounded judicial proceedings since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government on Aug. 5, 2024, with at least five journalists detained.
Women journalists also face harassment and online hate campaigns.