Iceland: Siltanews – News Desk
A new global index has found press freedom to be more under threat than ever, with Iceland ranking behind its Nordic neighbours.
As reported by the country’s national broadcaster, RÚV, the annual ranking by Reporters without Borders places Iceland 17th overall. This position is well below Norway, which tops the list, followed by Estonia, the Netherlands, Sweden and Finland.
“It is simply completely unacceptable and there must be reason to take a close look at the situation, take measures and reverse this trend,” said Valgerður Anna Jóhannsdóttir, associate professor of journalism at the University of Iceland.
While Iceland’s media enjoys high levels of legal protection and public trust, the report warns that political and economic influence, particularly from the fishing industry, is putting pressure on editorial independence.
Valgerður noted that police investigations into journalists have also damaged trust and autonomy. Also, it was noted that criticism towards journalists on social media and in Parliament often crosses the line.
“I think it’s quite safe to say that it’s more common here than elsewhere in the Nordic countries for the professionalism and integrity of journalists to be called into question in public debate.” She added that the media “is certainly not above criticism,” but that it must be constructive and grounded.