Attacks on press in Mexico hit record level during López Obrador’s presidency

Report paints bleak picture of journalist safety under leader who often criticises media and downplays violence against reporters

Attacks against the press in Mexico have increased by 85% since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office, making it the most deadly period for journalists since records began, according to a new report.

Mexico is one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists with 1,945 attacks - including 33 murders - between 2019 and 2021, according to the press freedom group Article 19. Another eight have been killed so far this year.