The Future of Free Speech Index, 2025

Why in news?

The free speech index was recently released by the Future of Free Speech and India was ranked 24^th out of the 33 countries.

• Future of Free Speech Index – Is a global survey by The Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank.
• Based on 8 questions – The index is based on answers to 3 general questions and 5 more concrete questions.

Free speech is a cornerstone of democracy, a fundamental right that empowers individuals to express their opinions, challenge authority and engage in open debate.

Key Findings of the Report

• Decline in free speech – The survey, conducted in October 2024, also revealed that “more countries have seen declines rather than improvements in free speech support since 2021.
• India – Has ranked India 24^th out of the 33 countries surveyed on the question of support for free speech.
• India, with a score of 62.6, was placed 24^th, between South Africa and Lebanon.

Freedom of Expression is protected by Article 19 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

• Democratic nations – The biggest drops in free speech has occurred in democratic nations like the United States, Israel and Japan.
• Scandinavia – Dominated the top rankings, with Norway ranks highest in support for free speech, followed closely by Denmark and Sweden.
• Asia – Indonesia, Malaysia and Pakistan showed the biggest improvements, though they remained at the lower end of the ranking.
• Authoritarian-leaning nations — Such as Hungary and Venezuela scored high.

References

1. The Hindu | Free Speech Index
2. The Future of Free Speech Index Report