Evaluates how free and supported the media is in holding political powers accountable without pressure or interference from the state or political groups.

Evaluates how much financial pressure (whether from the government, advertisers, or owners) affects media independence and fairness.

Evaluates how well journalists are protected by laws to freely express themselves, access information, and avoid punishment or violence for their work.

Evaluates how much social or cultural biases and taboos prevent journalists from covering certain topics or expressing themselves freely.

Evaluates how physically, emotionally, and professionally safe journalists are while doing their job, including threats, violence, and intimidation.