Freedom of Expression declines across Americas

Argentina.- The Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) revealed that freedom of expression and press freedom are facing growing restrictions across the Americas, as shown by the 2024 Chapultepec Index. The report, covering 22 countries between August 2023 and August 2024, indicates a continued decline for the second consecutive year. Notably, no country ranked in the “freedom of expression” category, a significant shift from previous years.

Countries with “low restrictions” include Chile, the Dominican Republic, Canada, the U.S., Brazil, Uruguay, Jamaica, and Panama. Meanwhile, nations such as Paraguay, Costa Rica, Argentina, and Mexico fall into the “restricted” category, while Honduras, Peru, and Guatemala face “high restrictions.” Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua remain in the “no freedom of expression” category, with Venezuela showing the largest decline.

Looking ahead, the Dominican Republic will host the 81st IAPA General Assembly in Punta Cana in October 2025, focusing on freedom of information and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence.