This variable indicates the extent to which freedoms of speech and press are affected by government censorship, including ownership of media outlets. Censorship is any form of restriction that is placed on freedom of the press, speech or expression. In many instances where this right is being violated, the government owns and operates all forms of press and media.

Scoring Scheme:
Government censorship and/or ownership of the media (including radio, TV, Internet, and/or
domestic news agencies) is:
(0) Complete
(1) Some
(2) None