Washington, D.C. – U.S.-based think tank Freedom House has released its latest “Freedom in the World” report, highlighting a continued global decline in civil liberties and political rights. Over the past decade, Turkey has dropped by 22 points, ranking 7th among the countries experiencing the most significant declines in freedom.
The report lists Nicaragua as the country with the sharpest decline, followed by Tunisia, El Salvador, and Tanzania. Niger, Hong Kong, and Serbia also ranked among the worst-performing nations. Notably, Venezuela tied with Turkey, also experiencing a 22-point drop in the last 10 years.
Turkey Remains on “Not Free” List
The report confirms that Turkey continues to be classified as “Not Free,” a status it has held since 2018. Despite mounting domestic and international criticism, the Turkish government has made no significant improvements in civil liberties, press freedom, or judicial independence.
Globally, freedom declined for the 19th consecutive year in 2024. The report found that political rights and civil liberties deteriorated in 60 countries, while only 34 nations recorded improvements.
Sharpest Declines and Biggest Gains
Among the countries experiencing the largest setbacks in 2024 were El Salvador, Haiti, Kuwait, and Tunisia. Conversely, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Syria were cited as the most improved nations.
Regarding Syria, the report stated:
“The sudden downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, more than 13 years after he brutally suppressed pro-democracy protests and ignited a civil war, served as a reminder that despotic rule is often more fragile than it appears.”
40% of the World’s Population is “Not Free”
According to the report, the majority of the global population continues to live under restricted freedoms. Among 195 countries analyzed:
– 40% of the world’s population lives in “Not Free” countries
– 40% live in “Partly Free” countries
– Only 20% live in “Free” nations
Additionally, more than 40% of countries that held elections in 2024 witnessed violence targeting candidates, with multiple assassination attempts. The report noted:
“Polling stations were attacked, post-election protests were violently suppressed, and authoritarian regimes manipulated elections to block genuine opposition candidates.”
“The World in 2024 is Not Only Less Secure—It is Also Less Free”
The Freedom House report emphasized that ongoing civil wars, interstate conflicts, and the rise of armed militias, mercenaries, and criminal organizations have further weakened global security and restricted fundamental freedoms.
“In 2024, the world became not only less safe but also less free, as conflicts and authoritarian tactics curtailed basic rights and liberties,” the report stated.
Signs of Hope for Democratic Progress
Despite the widespread deterioration, the report also highlighted potential opportunities for democratic resurgence. It pointed to cases where countries held competitive elections or witnessed the collapse of long-standing authoritarian regimes, opening the door for institutional rebuilding and stronger democratic governance.
The Freedom House “Freedom in the World” report provides an annual global assessment of political rights and civil liberties across all nations and select territories. The 2025 edition covers developments from January 1 to December 31, 2024, in 195 countries and 13 regions.
Read the full report below.
