Congress Affirms Global Press Freedom, Calls Out 361 Imprisoned Journalists Worldwide

This resolution is Congress’s formal way of saying, “We see you, journalists, and we know your job is getting harder.” Since it’s a resolution, it doesn't create new law or funding, but it serves as a strong policy declaration, essentially putting the U.S. government on record about the importance of a free press both at home and abroad, especially leading up to World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2025.

The Real-World Cost of Getting the Story

Congress is highlighting some alarming trends that directly impact how the average person gets their news. Freedom House reports that global freedom has declined for 19 consecutive years, and press freedom is a major casualty. The resolution cites specific, tough numbers: as of 2024, at least 124 journalists were killed worldwide and about 361 were imprisoned. For perspective, China alone is holding around 50 of those journalists. This isn't just a political problem; it's a transparency problem. When journalists can't report safely, whether they're covering a supply chain issue in Asia or a local corruption scandal, the information gap is filled by propaganda or silence. This makes it harder for everyone—from investors to consumers—to make informed decisions.

Accountability Gap and Who Pays the Price

One of the most sobering points in the resolution is the massive accountability gap. For nearly 80% of journalist murders over the last decade, no one has been held responsible. This impunity creates a chilling effect: if the bad actors know they won't face consequences, the danger only increases. The resolution also points out that women journalists are facing disproportionate targeting, noting a 30% increase in women imprisoned in 2022 compared to the previous year. This means that diverse, essential perspectives are being silenced, making the news we do get less complete.

What the U.S. Is Already Doing—And What It Needs to Continue

This resolution isn't starting from scratch; it’s building on existing policy. Congress reminds us of tools already in use, like the Daniel Pearl Freedom of the Press Act of 2009, which expanded reporting on press freedom in annual human rights reports, and the Global Magnitsky Act, which allows the U.S. to sanction people who harm journalists. They also specifically mention the Khashoggi Ban (named after murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi), which blocks visas for foreign government agents who suppress or harm journalists overseas. The resolution calls on the President and the Secretary of State to keep these efforts prioritized, ensuring the U.S. continues to investigate and seek justice for attacks on American journalists like Austin Tice, who has been held in Syria since 2012.

The Bottom Line: Why This Matters to Your Wallet and Your Vote

While this resolution doesn't mandate new spending or laws, it sends a clear signal that the U.S. will continue to use diplomatic pressure and existing sanctions against regimes that target the press. Why should you care? Because a free press is the engine of transparency. When journalists can safely expose corruption, track misuse of public funds, or report accurately on global conflicts, it stabilizes markets, reduces risk, and ensures governments are answerable to the people who pay the taxes. Essentially, this resolution is Congress saying that defending the people who ask tough questions abroad is a core part of protecting democracy and the flow of reliable information everywhere.