Further deterioration in press freedom

Once again, the states of the Gulf region have sunk to the bottom of the annual press freedom index published by Reporters Sans Frontières (RSF). Out of 180 countries scored, the 2014 rankings for the Gulf countries were as follows: Kuwait (91); Qatar (113); United Arab Emirates (118); Oman (134); Iraq (153); Bahrain (163); Saudi Arabia (164); Yemen (167); Iran (173).While Kuwait remains the state with most press freedom, it fell by 13 places, reflecting changes including parliament’s approval of a draft media law that would allow the authorities to fine journalists up to $1m for criticising the emir or the crown prince