FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION INDEX IN MYANMAR SURVEY REPORT [December 2025]
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.
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) self-censorship. These categories assess the impact on the freedom of expression experienced by the people of Myanmar across various dimensions.
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.
Methodologies
Responses from this survey were collected using the KoBoToolbox online survey tool and through quantitative research. A set of questionnaires was distributed among partner organizations and individuals of Athan to ensure a diverse range of respondents across Myanmar.
This online survey consists of 35 questions designed to help respondents explore their personal emotions in relation to external factors. Given that different administrations partially control various regions of Myanmar, the survey categorizes these areas based on the current situation within the country—identifying which administration is in power, whether it be the military regime, the National Unity Government, or Ethnic Armed Organizations.
This survey presents three approaches for respondents to consider regarding the administrative territory in which they reside: (1) Protection of freedom of expression, (2) practical restrictions on freedom of expression, and (3) legal restrictions on freedom of expression. The survey differentiates between the laws and practices of each administration using these three approaches.
Challenges
The primary challenge for this survey is the occurrence of internet and communication blackouts. Respondents need internet access to participate. For instance, in Rakhine State, where internet access is completely shut down, there is only one respondent. Athan has advised respondents from military-controlled areas to answer the questions only in safe places, such as their homes.