Jamaica has slipped 20 places in the latest World Press Freedom Ranking, which was released today (May 3).

The country now ranks 32 out of 180 countries, down from 12 last year.

Jamaica scored 75.89 out of 100 this year, compared to 83.35 last year.

The 21st World Press Freedom Index was published by reporters without borders today, in observation of World Press Freedom Day.

A review on Jamaica notes that the right to information is widely respected and the country continues to rank among the safest in the world for journalists.

It however highlighted instances where Prime Minister Andrew Holness has been critical of the press.

The review said although Mr Holness has stated his commitment to upholding press freedom, he has also suggested that journalists do not always stick to the facts or truth and that a free press enables journalists to “take whatever stance they want”.

Meanwhile, commenting on the index at Jamaica House this morning, Information Minister, Robert Morgan said although Jamaica’s ranking has fallen, the Government remains committed to press freedom.