press freedom

Composite image of Nigar Nazar drawing, cartoon character Gogi leaning on Nazar's chair (Courtesy of Nigar Nazar)

Pakistan recognizes U.S. exchange program alumni with national awards

Pakistan recently gave awards to several alumni of U.S. government exchange programs. Learn more about their contributions to Pakistan.
Man speaking to a crowd of people (© Cheriss May/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Unlocking world literature for readers

International authors come to the PEN America World Voices Festival to share new perspectives with American readers.
Man standing in glass-enclosed cage in courtroom (© The Moscow City Court/AP)

Honoring defenders of freedom of expression

Authoritarian regimes continue to crack down on freedom of expression. World Press Freedom Day honors those who bravely speak out.
رسم توضيحي لامرأة حول عنقها العلم الأوكراني وعلى رأسها تاج من الزهور (State Dept./D. Thompson)

United with Ukraine [January–March 2023]

Check out our latest coverage of the developments in Ukraine and the U.S. response. This article will be updated on a rolling basis.
Illustration of Lady Liberty pointing a microphone. (State Dept./D. Thompson)

The importance of an independent press

The U.S. deemed free and independent media so essential that press freedom is protected in the Constitution. Find out why.
Group of people posing for photo (State Dept.)

Honoring human rights defenders

Labor and women's rights activists, a journalist and a surgeon are among recipients of the 2023 Human Rights Defender Awards.
Man wrapping arms around another man and pulling him backward (© Ramon Espinosa/AP Images)

Political prisoners suffer abuses in Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua

Hundreds of political prisoners in Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela are subjected to torture and other human rights abuses.
Person seen on ground surrounded by people in uniform (© Misha Friedman/AP Images)

Authoritarian regimes continue jailing journalists

Authoritarian regimes continue to jail journalists around the world. Learn more about the problem and how the U.S. supports independent news.
Graphic of giant fist holding man with his hands up; Russian flag on sleeve of fist and facial recognition shown on man (Graphic: State Dept./M. Gregory. Image: © rudall30/Shutterstock.com)

Putin’s latest crackdown on dissent and information

Russians who criticize the war in Ukraine are facing prosecution and isolation. Find out more about Russia's campaign of suppression.