Variation in Media Freedom Across Countries

Author: Mason Chung

Field of Study: Philosophy, Politics and Law; Economics

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Wendy Martinek

Easel: 55

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Why do levels of media freedom vary internationally? Existing scholarship demonstrates a positive bidirectional relationship between economic growth and press freedom. However, this study expands on this research and argues that variation in media freedom is influenced by both the level of democracy present and economic growth within a nation. It uses comprehensive data from Reporters Without Borders’ World Press Freedom Index, Freedom House’s Freedom in the World scores, and the World Bank’s World Development Indicators to determine what positively affects media freedom. The study anticipates that higher levels of democracy and economic growth will result in increased levels of media freedom within a nation. Because media freedom is a fundamental human right, these findings help explain why such violations are more prevalent in certain governments.