Beijing, May 3: China has become the largest jail for journalists globally due to the government’s oppressive campaign against journalism and the right to information. According to the latest annual report from Reporters Without Borders (RSF), there are currently 110 journalists and three media workers detained in China.
The report highlights that the Chinese government employs tactics such as surveillance, pressure, threats, and intimidation to prevent independent journalists from reporting on issues it deems sensitive.
In the World Press Freedom Index, China ranks 178th out of 180 countries, placing it third from the bottom. Only North Korea (179) and Eritrea (180) rank lower. Last year, China was ranked 176th.
China’s situation is dire across various metrics. It ranks 179th in political and legal matters, 177th in social issues, and 173rd in economic aspects. This clearly indicates that journalism faces pressure at every level in the country.
In March, RSF harshly criticized Chinese authorities for denying journalist Zhang Zhan access to her lawyer, isolating her completely from the outside world. RSF has called for increased global pressure on China.
According to the report, Zhang Zhan was sentenced for the second time in September 2025 on “false charges.” She has been denied access to legal counsel, hindering her ability to appeal her case properly.
Alexandra Bielakowska, RSF’s Asia-Pacific Advocacy Manager, stated that the Chinese government is making every effort to intimidate and silence Zhang Zhan. She emphasized that Zhang should be viewed as a brave journalist for informing the world about a significant health crisis rather than being imprisoned.
Bielakowska also urged the international community to intensify pressure on China to secure Zhang Zhan’s release, ensure her safety, and provide her with adequate medical care.
On September 19, 2025, Zhang Zhan was sentenced to four years for “causing a disturbance” following a closed-door hearing.
The organization reported that during the hearing, at least seven diplomats from different countries and five activists attempted to enter but were blocked. Some were briefly detained. Zhang’s lawyers have been denied access to her, and her legal representatives have faced harassment.
RSF also noted that Zhang Zhan was arrested on August 28, 2024, and is currently held at the Pudong Detention Center in Shanghai. This is her second term in prison.
She was first arrested in May 2020 while reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic from Wuhan, during which she posted over 100 videos online.
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