However, the reality on the ground presents a more nuanced picture, where the spirit of press freedom is sometimes challenged by practical constraints and subtle pressures. While outright internet blackouts or widespread media shutdowns are not common occurrences in Namibia, journalists can face less overt forms of harassment, including difficulties in accessing official information or facing defamation lawsuits from powerful figures. State-owned media outlets such as the New Era newspaper and the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) are often perceived as reflecting government policy, sometimes limiting the range of critical voices presented to the public. This dynamic means that discerning readers often turn to private media for investigative journalism and alternative viewpoints, highlighting a persistent divide in media independence.