Oman Advances 18 Places in 2024 Press Freedom Index

12 August 2025
Dr. Rashid bin Hamad Al Balooshi, Chairman of the Oman Human Rights Commission, stated that the Commission continues its national role in protecting and promoting human rights, based on its legal mandate, the values and principles enshrined in the Basic Law of the State, and the international agreements to which Oman is a party.

Press Freedom as a Pillar of Freedom of Expression
He emphasized that press freedom is one of the fundamental pillars of freedom of expression. In this context, the Commission recorded Oman’s advancement by 18 positions in the 2024 Press Freedom Index issued by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) compared to 2023. The index assesses press freedom in 180 countries annually, using five key criteria: political context, legal framework, economic context, socio-cultural context, and safety.

National Human Rights Strategy
Al Balooshi also announced that the “National Human Rights Strategy” will be launched on 10 December this year. This strategy covers all relevant aspects and aims to strengthen and protect human rights in Oman, in line with the Basic Law of the State, the international conventions Oman has joined, and the laws in force.