Free Speech Index

Free Speech Index: India ranked 24th out of 33 countries in the Free Speech Index, as per a global survey by The Future of Free Speech, a U.S.-based think tank.

• About Free Speech Index: The survey conducted by the Future of Free Speech.
• India’s Rank: 24th out of 33 countries with a score of 62.6 — between South Africa (66.9) and Lebanon (61.8).
• Top Rankings: Dominated by Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0).
• Biggest Improvements: Shown by Indonesia (56.8), Malaysia (55.4), and Pakistan (57.0), though still in the lower rankings.
• Findings on India:

o Majority of Indians value free speech without government censorship.

o 37% of Indians believe that governments should prevent criticism of policies — highest among surveyed countries.

o Contrasting figures: U.K. (5%) and Denmark (3%).

o India shows disconnect between public supports for free speech and actual protection — similar to Hungary and Venezuela.

• Perception vs Reality: Indians believe free speech has improved, while global observers note that it has worsened since 2021.

o The report highlighted democratic backsliding in countries like India, impacting political liberties and freedom of expression.