The world’s 10 freest countries in 2025

Finland has been ranked the world’s freest country in 2026 with a perfect score of 100, according to Freedom House’s latest Freedom in the World report. The annual report assessed political rights and civil liberties across 195 countries and territories, revealing that global freedom declined for the 20th consecutive year.

The report showed that more than 50 countries experienced declines in freedom scores, including the United States, which recorded one of its sharpest annual drops and its lowest score on record. Freedom House cited growing concerns over democratic institutions, political participation, freedom of expression, and civil liberties in several nations.

European and Pacific countries dominated the top rankings, with Finland, New Zealand, Norway, and Sweden leading the list. The report attributed their high scores to strong electoral systems, independent judiciaries, press freedom, and robust legal protections for citizens.

In contrast, South Sudan received the lowest score of zero, reflecting severe restrictions on political rights and civil liberties. Freedom House said conflicts, political instability, media restrictions, and pressure on democratic institutions continue to fuel the global decline in freedom.

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Here are the world’s 10 freest countries in 2026.

1. Finland — 100

Finland recorded a perfect score of 100, placing it first globally. The country maintained strong political participation, judicial independence and media freedom. Citizens continue to enjoy broad civil liberties, while public institutions operate with high levels of trust and transparency.

2. New Zealand — 99

New Zealand ranked second with a score of 99. The country has maintained open elections, freedom of speech and protections for minority rights. Its democratic institutions remain stable, supported by public confidence in governance and the rule of law.

3. Norway — 99

Norway shared the same score as New Zealand. The country continues to rank highly for press freedom, political rights and access to justice. Public accountability and social protections also contributed to its position near the top of the index.

4. Sweden — 99

Sweden retained one of the highest freedom scores in the world. The country’s democratic system, legal protections and open civic space supported its ranking. Freedom House also noted the strength of Sweden’s institutions and electoral processes.

5. Ireland — 98

Ireland scored 98, reflecting strong protections for civil liberties and political participation. The country has maintained stable democratic structures and protections for freedom of expression, assembly and association.

6. Canada — 97

Canada ranked sixth with a score of 97. The report highlighted the country’s electoral integrity, independent judiciary and legal protections for citizens. Canada also remained one of the highest-scoring countries in North America.

7. Denmark — 97

Denmark continued its presence among the world’s highest-ranked democracies. The country recorded strong performances in governance, transparency and civic rights. Its legal and political institutions remain central to its high score.

8. Luxembourg — 97

Luxembourg scored 97 and remained one of Europe’s top-performing countries on political rights and civil liberties. The country’s democratic system and protections for individual freedoms contributed to its ranking.

9. Netherlands — 97

The Netherlands maintained a score of 97, supported by press freedom, political participation and legal protections. The country also recorded strong institutional performance and public access to democratic processes.

10. San Marino — 97

San Marino completed the top 10 with a score of 97. Despite its small size, the country continued to record strong performances in political representation, civil rights and institutional independence.