The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer has shed light on the varying levels of trust in media institutions across different regions, with China, Indonesia, and India emerging as the top three countries with the highest trust levels. According to the report, these countries, which collectively represent a population of over three billion people, have demonstrated significant public confidence in their media institutions.

The report highlights that China boasts a 75% trust level, followed closely by Indonesia with 75%, and India with 67%. Other countries with notable trust levels include Thailand (67%), Kenya (66%), and Nigeria (63%). Singapore (62%), Saudi Arabia (61%), Malaysia (60%), and the United Arab Emirates (59%) also feature in the top 10 list.

The high trust levels in these countries may be attributed to factors such as state control, regulatory policies, or consistent reporting. However, the report also reveals significant regional disparities in media trust. Japan and South Korea, for instance, show widespread skepticism towards their media, with trust levels standing at 33% and 38%, respectively. This stark contrast with their regional counterparts, such as China and Indonesia, underscores the complexity of the global media trust landscape.

The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer also indicates that most countries have witnessed a slight increase in media trust over time. However, five nations recorded declines in trust levels, reflecting concerns over misinformation, political influence, and media bias. The most dramatic change occurred in Argentina, where trust in the media saw a significant rise, coinciding with increased public confidence in the government following the election of President Javier Milei.

The findings of the report have significant implications for the media industry, highlighting the need for media institutions to prioritize transparency, journalistic integrity, and accountability to maintain public trust. As media landscapes continue to evolve, these factors will likely play crucial roles in shaping future trust levels. The report serves as a reminder that media trust is not a fixed entity, but rather a dynamic concept that requires ongoing effort and commitment to maintain.

The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer provides a valuable snapshot of the global media trust landscape, underscoring the importance of understanding the nuances of public perception and the factors that influence trust in media institutions. As the media industry continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, this report serves as a timely reminder of the need for media organizations to prioritize trust, transparency, and accountability to maintain their relevance and credibility.