Press Freedom Report: March 26, 2025

Russia

• New "Foreign Content" Law Enters Into Effect
  A new Russian law requiring all media outlets to label foreign-sourced news as “external content” has come into force. The law mandates disclosure of the origin, funding, and “intent” of foreign-produced journalism, effectively branding independent international coverage as propaganda. Newsrooms operating in Russia face increased regulatory pressure and legal ambiguity, especially foreign correspondents reporting on sensitive topics like the Ukraine conflict, domestic dissent, or economic instability.

South Africa

• Court Dismisses Defamation Case Against Investigative Journalists
  A Johannesburg high court dismissed a defamation suit brought by a major mining conglomerate against a team of investigative journalists. The journalists had published a multi-part report on environmental violations and alleged bribery involving local officials. The court ruled the reporting to be in the public interest and protected under South Africa’s press freedom provisions. The decision was hailed as a major win for investigative journalism in a region where legal intimidation is often used to suppress reporting on corporate misconduct.