ArmInfo.The 2021 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) shows that journalism, the main vaccine against disinformation, is completely or partly blocked in 73% of the 180 countries ranked by the organisation.
The 2022 Index ranks Armenia 51st, whereas the 2021 Index ranked it 63rd.
Despite a pluralistic environment, the media remain polarised. The country is facing an unprecedented level of disinformation and hate speech, especially concerning the Nagorno-Karabakh territorial dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Media landscape The main news sources in Armenia are social networks, which two-thirds of the population access daily. Since the "velvet revolution" of 2018, the media landscape has grown. Independent online news sites are prospering, among them Civilnet.am, hetq.am, Factor.am and Azatutyun.am, fulfilling their role as an essential counterweight to democracy. Nevertheless, most broadcast and print media, affiliated with major political and commercial interests, continue to face pressure concerning their editorial policy.
Political context The poliarisation of the media mirrors that of the political scene: most outlets are close to political leaders who surfaced after 2018, while others remain faithful to old oligarchs. Only a handful of media demonstrate independence. Since 2020, two political topics are especially sensitive: the Nagorno-Karabakh war and the handling of the pandemic. Some political groups run disinformation operations and attack journalists.
Legal framework The legal framework for the sector does not sufficiently protect freedom of the press and does not follow European standards. Recent reforms have not resolved problems posed by disinformation and gag orders. On the contrary, the criminalisation of defamation - for which the fine amount has tripled - poses a serious threat to journalists. Access to public information is limited by the government (refusal to respond, delays, etc.)
Economic context Most media are controlled by people close to political movements or supported by influential public figures. Few outlets have adopted paid subscription models, and the advertising market remains under- developed, which limits the financial independence of private media. State-owned media refrain from any criticism of the government. Enforcement of a new legal framework which guarantees the transparency of media ownership has yet to begin.
Sociocultural context As a profession, journalism is disparaged and subject to especially troubling hate speech. Anti-media rhetoric from political elites, who accuse journalists of "corruption" and of being in the service of their adversaries, creates a climate of intolerance that hinders reporters' work. They are constantly insulted, assaulted and subject to abusive prosecution for calumny, which reinforces self-censorship.
Safety The year 2021 was difficult for the media and for journalists because of the Nagorno-Karabakh war, scheduled elections and the pandemic. A government minister's assault on a journalist from an opposition outlet, followed by months of investigation that ended in judicial failure to recognize the minister's guilt, represents a major setback for press freedom. In general, violence against journalists goes unpunished.
For detailed information visit: https://rsf.org/en/2021-world-press-freedom-index-journalism-vaccine- against-disinformation-blocked-more-130-countries