Nepal ranked 118th on 2013 press freedom Index

Nepal has been ranked 118th in the world and third in South Asia on the the 2013 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index.

The Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders takes into account protection for the freedom to produce and circulate accurate news and information, legislation and violence against journalists, among others, said Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Nepal, which was ranked 106th last year, has dropped 12 places to 118th this year. Bhutan (ranked 82nd ) tops the index in South Asia. Similarly The Maldives has been ranked 103rd, Afghanistan 128th, India 140th, Bangladesh 144th, Pakistan 159th and Sri Lanka 162nd.

The same three European countries that headed the index last year hold the top three positions again this year, said RFS on its website.

"For the third year running, Finland has distinguished itself as the country that most respects media freedom. It is followed by the Netherlands and Norway. Although many criteria are considered, ranging from legislation to violence against journalists, democratic countries occupy the top of the index while dictatorial countries occupy the last three positions. Again it is the same three as last year – Turkmenistan, North Korea and Eritrea." Nepalnews.com