Status of the Media in Countries
Allied with the Bush Administration

When might we expect Rep. Mack to introduce a resolution condemning Italy and the other allies listed below with low ranking, for their lack of freedom of the press?

Italy (Ranked #40 by Reporters without Borders)

Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, owns almost all of the television outlets in Italy. He was responsible for the firing of two of Italy's most respected journalists because they criticized him. He has complained about other journalists, hosts, and programes which have criticized him and many are in fear of losing their jobs. For more on this ally of the Bush Administration, see the February 16 article in The Independent or click here

Some additional rankings of "Coalition of the willing" countires.

• Japan at #26
• Poland is tied at #30
• Bulgaria at #38
• South Korea at #39
• Romania at #45
• Mongolia at tied #72
• Ukraine at #112

The coalition countries nearest the top of the rankings are Australia at #12, the USA at #17, and the UK tied at #21

• back to front page