Freedom of Expression Index in Myanmar
Survey Report (December 2025)
1. Introduction
Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right that upholds individual opinions,
thoughts, beliefs, and the right to access information.1 Since the military coup in February
2021, the military regime has imposed strict controls on freedom of expression and the
right to information.2 This regime has arbitrarily punished journalists and artists for voicing
their opinions and beliefs.
According to the "Global Freedom Index" published by Freedom House, a nonprofit
organization based in Washington, D.C., Myanmar is classified as "not a free nation." 3
The country has received a score of only 7 out of 100 for fundamental freedoms and 9
points for internet freedom. Additionally, the 2023 Press Freedom Index by Reporters
Without Borders ranked Myanmar 173rd out of 180 countries.4
The preparation of the questionnaires considers how extreme digital restrictions,
displacement, and multiple administrative systems have affected freedom of expression
in Myanmar. The survey is organized into four main parts: (1) fundamental rights and
safety, (2) digital and online spaces, (3) access to media and diversity, and (4) selfcensorship. These categories assess the impact on the freedom of expression
experienced by the people of Myanmar across various dimensions.
2. Objectives
This survey aimed to analyze the situation regarding freedom of expression, media
freedom, and the right to information across various regions of Myanmar under different
administrative systems, particularly in the context of the civil war that followed the military
coup. The findings will be used to advocate for local authorities and administrators. The
survey was conducted between September and October 2025 and involved 134
participants, including journalists, civil society workers, and young people, from different
administrative systems throughout Myanmar.